Name: One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine (or preferred pasta); 1 lb ground beef; 3 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in just one pan. I love how the rich, velvety sauce coats every strand of pasta, while the savory beef adds a satisfying heartiness. The garlic butter infuses the dish with a deep, irresistible aroma, making it impossible to resist. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, which means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying every creamy, garlicky bite.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet indulgent. It delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort, using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this one-pot wonder will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Easy cleanup – Everything cooks in one pot, making dishwashing a breeze.
Rich and creamy texture – The butter and cream create a smooth, luscious sauce.
Hearty and satisfying – The combination of pasta and beef makes for a filling meal.
Packed with garlic flavor – If you love garlic, this dish is a dream come true.
Perfect for busy nights – Quick to prepare without sacrificing taste.
Customizable – You can tweak it with different proteins, cheeses, or spices.

What Type of Pasta Works Best for This Dish?

For this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta, I prefer using fettuccine or linguine because they hold onto the rich, buttery sauce beautifully. Their wide, flat shape ensures each bite is coated with creamy goodness. However, you can also use spaghetti, penne, or even rotini if that’s what you have on hand. The key is to use a pasta that absorbs the sauce well and doesn’t overcook too quickly.

If you want a slightly lighter version, try whole wheat pasta for added fiber, or gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different pasta types cook at different rates.

Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re out of an ingredient or just looking for a twist, here are some great substitutions:

Ground beef → Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor.
Heavy cream → Use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan cheese → If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago work well too.
Butter → Try ghee or olive oil for a slightly different richness.
Garlic → Fresh garlic is best, but in a pinch, garlic powder can add a similar depth of flavor.
Pasta → While fettuccine is ideal, you can use any pasta you love or have available.

These simple swaps ensure that you can still enjoy this dish with what you have in your kitchen, making it both flexible and convenient.

Ingredients for This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in building its rich, comforting flavor. Here’s why you need them:

Fettuccine – The perfect pasta for holding onto the creamy, garlicky sauce. You can substitute with other pasta shapes if needed.
Ground beef – Adds a savory, hearty element to the dish, making it extra satisfying.
Butter – Infuses the pasta with a rich, silky texture and enhances the garlic flavor.
Garlic – The star ingredient that brings deep, aromatic warmth to the dish.
Heavy cream – Creates a luscious, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Beef broth – Adds depth of flavor and helps cook the pasta directly in the sauce.
Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce, adding a salty, nutty richness.
Salt and pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
Fresh parsley – A bright, fresh garnish that balances the richness of the dish.
Red pepper flakes (optional) – For a subtle kick of heat, if you like a little spice.

Each ingredient works together to create a creamy, savory, and utterly delicious pasta dish that’s easy to make in just one pot.

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet or deep pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Once fully cooked, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside, leaving a little bit of the grease for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Butter

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the fettuccine, making sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook according to the pasta package instructions.

Step 4: Melt the Parmesan and Return the Beef

Once the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let it melt into the sauce, creating a thick, creamy consistency. Return the cooked beef to the pan and stir everything together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and serve immediately while warm. Enjoy your One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta!

How Long to Cook One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

The total cooking time for this dish is about 25 to 30 minutes from start to finish. Browning the beef takes about 5 minutes, sautéing the garlic and butter another 1 to 2 minutes, and cooking the pasta in the sauce takes around 12 to 15 minutes. The final step, where the Parmesan melts into the sauce, only takes a minute or two.

Be sure to stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the sauce thickens too quickly, you can add a little extra beef broth or cream to keep it smooth.

Tips for Perfect One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Use freshly grated Parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, so grating your own will give the best results.
Simmer, don’t boil – Cooking the pasta in a gentle simmer allows it to absorb all the flavors without overcooking.
Stir frequently – This prevents the pasta from sticking together or to the bottom of the pot.
Adjust the liquid as needed – If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.
Season gradually – Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper at the end to suit your preference.
Don’t skimp on garlic – The garlic butter is what gives this dish its signature flavor, so make sure to use fresh garlic for the best taste.
Let it rest before serving – Giving the pasta a couple of minutes off the heat allows the sauce to thicken just enough for the perfect consistency.

Follow these simple tips, and your pasta will turn out creamy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious every time!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this dish is simple, a few missteps can affect the final result. Here’s what to avoid:

Overcooking the pasta – Since it cooks directly in the sauce, keep an eye on the texture to ensure it remains al dente.
Burning the garlic – Garlic cooks quickly; just a minute in butter is enough before adding the liquids.
Using pre-shredded cheese – It contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always grate your own Parmesan for the best creamy texture.
Not stirring enough – Pasta can stick together or to the bottom of the pan, so stir occasionally while cooking.
Adding too much liquid at once – Start with the recommended amount, then adjust as needed to reach the perfect sauce consistency.
Skipping the resting time – Let the pasta sit for a couple of minutes off the heat so the sauce can thicken properly before serving.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll achieve the perfect creamy, garlicky pasta every time.

What to Serve With One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

This dish is rich and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can balance the meal beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread

A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread is the perfect companion to soak up the creamy sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

A fresh, crunchy Caesar salad with tangy dressing balances out the richness of the pasta.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy, flavorful contrast.

4. Sautéed Mushrooms

Mushrooms pair beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce, adding a deep umami flavor.

5. Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side.

6. Steamed Green Beans

A light and simple veggie option that complements the creamy texture of the pasta.

7. Antipasto Platter

Serve with olives, cured meats, and cheeses for a delicious Italian-inspired starter.

8. A Glass of White Wine

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay enhances the garlic butter flavors in the dish.

These sides help round out the meal and make it even more enjoyable!

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers of this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta, you can easily store and reheat them while keeping the flavors intact.

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, so you’ll need to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.
Freezing: While pasta dishes with cream-based sauces don’t freeze as well, you can still freeze it in a sealed container for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove with added liquid to bring back the creamy consistency.
Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra cream or broth to loosen the sauce. If using the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent clumping.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: ~680 kcal
Protein: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~55g
Fat: ~40g
Saturated Fat: ~20g
Cholesterol: ~110mg
Sodium: ~600mg
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~4g

These values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider swapping heavy cream for half-and-half or using lean ground turkey instead of beef.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes while cooking or stir in a little hot sauce for extra heat. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.

3. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it slowly with added broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture.

4. What if my sauce is too thick?

Simply add a little extra beef broth, milk, or cream while stirring to loosen it up.

5. Can I use pre-cooked pasta instead?

This recipe works best with uncooked pasta so it absorbs the flavors. If using pre-cooked pasta, reduce the broth and cream since the pasta won’t need to cook in the sauce.

6. How do I prevent my pasta from sticking together?

Stir frequently while cooking and make sure there’s enough liquid in the pan to keep everything coated.

7. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and swap the butter for olive oil. Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or cream, stirring occasionally. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals and stir in between to prevent drying out.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the perfect easy, comforting meal for any night of the week. The creamy garlic sauce, tender pasta, and savory beef make it a dish everyone will love. If you enjoyed this recipe, save it on Pinterest and share it with your friends and family! Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you!