This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate comfort food! It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor from the perfectly seasoned ground beef and buttery garlic sauce. Best of all, it’s a one-pot dish—meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this hearty pasta dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella/parmesan)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
- Heat a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Add butter to the pan, then toss in the onion and garlic.
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and slightly caramelized.
Step 3: Add Liquid & Pasta
- Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, and milk, stirring to combine.
- Add the salt, black pepper, paprika, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- Add uncooked pasta directly into the pot.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Make it Creamy & Cheesy
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar cheese and cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Simmer for 2 more minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra cheese, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Conclusion & Tips
- One-Pot Perfection: Cooking the pasta directly in the sauce adds extra flavor and makes cleanup easier.
- More Flavor? Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra texture and taste.
- Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for parmesan, gouda, or Monterey jack for a different flavor twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.