There’s something about Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta that always feels like home. I remember the first time I made it on a chilly evening; the aroma of browning beef and garlic filled my kitchen, instantly warming my heart. This one-pot meal is not just comforting but also incredibly simple to prepare, putting dinner on the table in around 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy.
What sets this pasta apart is the rich, savory flavor brought on by the garlic butter and ground beef, which creates a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to every noodle. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a delightful creaminess, making each bite irresistible. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet quick to prepare or for welcoming friends over for a cozy dinner.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick preparation time of around 30 minutes.
- Packed with flavor from garlic, beef, and herbs.
- One-pot cooking means fewer dishes to clean.
- Completely customizable with various pasta types or vegetables.
- Budget-friendly, utilizing common ingredients.
"This dish is my go-to for a quick and delicious meal!"
Step-by-step overview
Making Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is straightforward. Begin by cooking the ground beef and simmering it with fragrant garlic and seasonings. Then, add your chosen pasta and beef broth to create a flavorful base. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cheese and optional cream for a silky sauce. Finally, season and enjoy a delightful, comforting meal.
What you’ll need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Ground Beef: Leaner options like ground turkey or chicken can be used.
- Butter: Plant-based butter can be used for a dairy-free version.
- Pasta Types: Any pasta works; gluten-free options are great for dietary needs.
- Parmesan: For a vegan version, swap with dairy-free cheese.
Cooking method
Creating this savory dish is easy and rewarding. Follow these steps to make your Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta come to life.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until entirely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and dried Italian seasoning into the beef. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth and add the uncooked pasta. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed. Stir occasionally.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. If you prefer a creamier texture, add the heavy cream or milk and mix until smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If desired, sprinkle in red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Pro Tip: For better flavor absorption, let the beef brown without stirring too much initially. This builds a deeper flavor in the dish.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use a Dutch oven for even cooking and easy stirring.
- Pat your ground beef dry for a better sear and flavor.
- Fresh garlic is key for the best flavor, but you can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch.
- When adding the pasta, ensure it’s fully submerged to cook evenly.
- Stir frequently during the last few minutes to prevent sticking.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is lovely enjoyed fresh out of the pot. Consider serving it with garlic bread for a delightful crunch on the side. A fresh salad filled with crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta beautifully. You can also layer on some additional shredded cheese when serving for more indulgence.
Storage & reheating tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or milk if it seems dry. For freezing, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe bag, where it can last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
While preparing your Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta, you might run into a few common issues:
- Dry Pasta: If your pasta turns out too dry, add a splash more beef broth or cream while reheating.
- Bland Flavor: Always taste before serving; a pinch of salt or a sprinkle of Parmesan can elevate flavor.
- Soggy Pasta: Be mindful of the cooking times; pasta should be al dente with a bit of bite.
- Separation Issues with Cream: If your sauce looks separated, whisk it vigorously while reheating, adding a little liquid if needed to bring it together again.
Recipe variations
Switching things up can keep this dish exciting. Consider adding veggies such as spinach or cherry tomatoes during cooking for a burst of color and nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses beyond Parmesan, like mozzarella or feta, for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, for a lighter version, skip the cream altogether and add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Common questions
Can I make Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead, storing the components separately. Just cook the pasta fresh to combine later, ensuring everything stays perfectly tender.
What pasta is best for this dish?
You can use any pasta you prefer, but I recommend shapes like penne or spaghetti, which hold the sauce well. Gluten-free pasta is also a great alternative.
Can I switch out the beef for another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a healthier alternative. Even crumbled sausage would add great flavor to this recipe.
How spicy can I make this dish?
Adjusting the spice level is easy! Add more or fewer red pepper flakes depending on your preference, and you can also introduce chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the beef and using plant-based innovations. Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and employ diced mushrooms for a meaty texture.
This Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a deliciously satisfying dish that you’ll turn to again and again. It’s perfect for dining alone after a long day or serving guests – comforting and wonderfully delightful in every bite. Enjoy the savory warmth and ease of this home-cooked meal!
Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until entirely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and dried Italian seasoning into the beef. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth and add the uncooked pasta. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed. Stir occasionally.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. If you prefer a creamier texture, add the heavy cream or milk and mix until smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If desired, sprinkle in red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs like parsley or basil.