One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a rich, comforting dinner made with tender ground beef, garlic butter, parmesan, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one pot. The pasta simmers directly in broth and milk, creating a naturally thick and creamy sauce in just 30 minutes.
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80 to 85 percent lean
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 3 cups beef broth low sodium preferred
- 2 cups whole milk or substitute 1 cup with heavy cream for richer sauce
- 12 oz pasta penne, rotini, or bowtie
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated freshly grated
- 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Brown the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart and allowing it to brown. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- 2. Build the garlic butter base: Add butter, onion, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 3. Add liquids and pasta: Pour in beef broth and milk. Stir well and scrape the bottom of the pan. Add uncooked pasta and press it down so it is mostly submerged. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 4. Finish the sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir until melted and creamy. If needed, add a splash of milk or broth to adjust consistency.
- 5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.
Notes
For a richer version, substitute 1 cup of milk with heavy cream. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce. Keep heat moderate after adding dairy to prevent separation. Leftovers can be reheated gently with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Total Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Potassium: 520 mg
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Vitamin A: 650 IU
- Vitamin C: 6 mg
- Calcium: 220 mg
- Iron: 3 mg