Garlic Butter Beef Pasta has become my absolute go-to for those nights when I need something incredibly satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I tried making it; I was skeptical that a one-pan meal could deliver such rich, savory flavors, but wow, was I wrong! The aroma of garlic and butter browning with the beef is just heavenly. This Easy Garlic Butter Beef Pasta Recipe is so straightforward, even a beginner cook can master it. If you’ve ever wondered how to make Garlic Butter Beef Pasta that’s both quick and unbelievably delicious, you’re in the right place. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Beef Pasta
There are so many reasons this dish is a winner! You’ll adore the:
- Incredible taste: The rich garlic butter sauce is pure comfort food bliss.
- Speedy prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-friendly appeal: Even picky eaters will devour this satisfying meal.
- Budget-friendly ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
- One-pan convenience: Less cleanup means more time to relax.
- Amazing texture: The way the pasta soaks up the sauce is divine.
- Flavor depth: It’s a truly savory experience, a standout Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta.
- Versatility: Easily adaptable to your favorite pasta or add-ins for a delicious Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Beef Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing Garlic Butter Beef Noodles dish. The beauty of this recipe is how simple and accessible the ingredients are, making it a true weeknight hero.
- 2 tablespoons butter – the base for our rich garlic butter sauce
- 1 lb ground beef – lean is good, but 85/15 gives great flavor
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – don’t skimp on the garlic, it’s key!
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – adds a subtle savory depth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – for an extra punch of garlic goodness
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of classic herbs
- 2 cups chicken broth – the liquid that cooks the pasta and forms the sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream – for that luscious, creamy texture
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated – melts beautifully into the sauce
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine – or your favorite long pasta shape
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – essential for flavor
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving (optional) – adds a pop of freshness and color
How to Make Garlic Butter Beef Pasta
This One Pot Garlic Butter Beef Pasta recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights. Seriously, everything cooks right in one skillet, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Let’s dive into how easy it is to create this savory masterpiece.
- Step 1: Start by melting 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add 1 lb ground beef. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
- Step 2: Now for the magic! Add 4 cloves garlic, minced, to the skillet with the beef. Cook for just about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until it’s wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, or it can turn bitter.
- Step 3: Stir in the seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Give everything a good mix to coat the beef and garlic evenly. This step really builds the flavor base for our Garlic Butter Beef Pasta.
- Step 4: Pour in 2 cups chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream. Add 8 oz linguine or fettuccine (uncooked!). Stir it all together, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. This is where the magic of a One Pot Garlic Butter Beef Pasta truly shines.
- Step 5: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling softly, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 10-12 minutes. Remember to stir every few minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. If it looks like it’s drying out too much, add a splash more broth or water. You want the pasta perfectly tender.
- Step 6: Uncover the skillet and stir in 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a wonderfully creamy coating for the pasta and beef.
- Step 7: Taste your amazing creation! Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This is your chance to make this Garlic Butter Beef Pasta perfectly yours.
- Step 8: Serve your delicious Garlic Butter Beef Pasta immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you like. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Beef Pasta
I’ve made this dish countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to ensure it’s always perfect. Follow these tips for the ultimate Garlic Butter Beef Pasta experience!
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Since it cooks in the sauce, it can get mushy if you go too long. Taste it a minute or two before the suggested time.
- Use good quality beef: A slightly fattier ground beef (like 85/15) adds more flavor to the sauce.
- Fresh garlic is key: While garlic powder is great, fresh minced garlic provides that vibrant, authentic flavor.
- Adjust liquid as needed: Pasta absorbs liquid differently. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash more broth or water. Too thin? Let it simmer uncovered for a minute longer.
What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Butter Beef Pasta?
The real secret is creating a flavorful panade with the beef and aromatics before adding the liquids. This, combined with good quality Parmesan cheese, makes for an incredibly rich and savory sauce that coats every strand of pasta. It’s truly a delightful Garlic Butter Steak Pasta.
Can I make Garlic Butter Beef Pasta ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep components ahead. Brown the beef and sauté the garlic mixture. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to cook, combine everything in the skillet and proceed with the recipe, adding the uncooked pasta and liquids.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Butter Beef Pasta?
A common pitfall is burning the garlic, which makes it bitter. Cook it for only 30 seconds until fragrant. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan when browning the beef, as this steams the meat instead of browning it, impacting flavor. Lastly, don’t skip stirring; it prevents the pasta from clumping.
Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Beef Pasta
This rich and savory dish is fantastic on its own, but serving it with a few simple additions really makes it sing. It’s the perfect canvas for your favorite flavors, and I love how versatile this Garlic Butter Beef Pasta with Parmesan truly is.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta beautifully. Think mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
- Crusty Bread: You absolutely need something to sop up that incredible garlic butter sauce! A warm, crusty baguette or Italian bread is my go-to.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: For a more complete meal, add a side of steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach. They add color and extra nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
Nutrition Facts for Garlic Butter Beef Pasta
This rich and satisfying Garlic Butter Beef Pasta is a hearty meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, so you know what you’re getting with this delicious dish.
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Homemade Garlic Butter Beef Pasta
This Garlic Butter Beef Pasta is so good, you might have leftovers! Storing and reheating it properly ensures you can enjoy this delicious dish again. For the best results with your Homemade Garlic Butter Beef Pasta, cool it completely before storing. Once cooled, transfer the pasta into airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce and keep it creamy. Alternatively, you can microwave it, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Avoid overheating, as this can make the pasta mushy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Beef Pasta
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Garlic Butter Beef Pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine or fettuccine are fantastic, feel free to use spaghetti, penne, or even rotini. Just ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking. This flexibility makes it a truly adaptable Savory Beef Garlic Butter Pasta.
What can I add to make this Garlic Butter Beef Pasta even better?
You can elevate this dish by adding sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or a handful of spinach in the last few minutes of cooking. A pinch of red pepper flakes also adds a nice warmth if you like a little heat. For more dinner ideas, check out these dinner recipes.
Is it possible to make this Garlic Butter Beef Pasta dairy-free?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version! Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. For the heavy cream, use full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream. You’ll also need to omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. If you’re looking for other creamy dishes, you might enjoy our cheesy scalloped potatoes.
How do I make the sauce thicker if it’s too thin?
If your sauce is thinner than you’d like, simply let the pasta simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, stirring occasionally. You can also create a slurry with a teaspoon of cornstarch and a tablespoon of water, then stir it into the simmering sauce until it thickens. For more cooking tips, you can visit Allrecipes’ beginner cooking tips.
Variations of Garlic Butter Beef Pasta You Can Try
This recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also a wonderful base for customization! Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option, a heartier meal, or just want to experiment with new flavors, there are tons of ways to switch up your Garlic Butter Beef Pasta. Here are a few ideas to get your culinary creativity flowing.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic in Step 2 for a subtle heat that complements the rich sauce.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in a handful of baby spinach or frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking. They wilt beautifully and add extra nutrients and color to your Garlic Butter Ground Beef Pasta. For a healthy meal option, try our power bowl.
- Cream Cheese Version: If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with 4 oz of softened cream cheese mixed with 1/2 cup of milk. Stir it in until smooth for a slightly different, but still delicious, creamy texture. This is similar to how we make our cranberry feta pinwheels.
- Lemon Zest Finish: For a brighter, fresher flavor, stir in the zest of half a lemon right before serving. It adds a lovely citrus note that cuts through the richness. You might also enjoy our baby lemon impossible pies.
Garlic Butter Beef Pasta: 1 Amazing Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy one-pan Garlic Butter Beef Pasta recipe perfect for busy weeknights. This comforting dish features tender ground beef in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce with your favorite pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and brown the meat, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to coat the beef.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add the uncooked pasta, stirring to ensure it is mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender. Add a splash more broth or water if the liquid gets too low.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce.
- Taste the Garlic Butter Beef Pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the Garlic Butter Beef Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- You can substitute ground turkey or sausage for ground beef.
- Add frozen peas or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking for added vegetables.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, a mixture of cream cheese and milk can be used as a substitute, though the texture will differ.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pan Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg