the best One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Craving a quick, hearty meal that dazzles with minimal fuss? One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta brings comforting, rich flavors to your dinner table with zero hassle.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

This dish combines tender ground beef cooked with fragrant garlic and creamy butter, simmered together with pasta to create a luscious, satisfying sauce.

Whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight or hosting a casual family gathering, this all-in-one meal saves you time on cooking and cleanup without sacrificing taste.

Emma Franklin

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

This one-pot creamy beef and garlic butter pasta combines tender ground beef, fragrant garlic, and Parmesan in a rich, buttery sauce that cooks together with the pasta. A quick, hearty comfort meal with minimal cleanup perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (or chicken thigh mince)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 8 oz penne or spaghetti pasta
  • 1/2 cup beef broth (or chicken broth if using chicken)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • large pot
  • wooden spoon
  • knife and cutting board
  • measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Add pasta ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook according to the pasta package directions until al dente (around 10-12 minutes).
  2. Add butter and minced garlic to the pot; sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and golden.
  3. Stir in dried Italian seasoning and pour in the broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Add pasta ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook according to the pasta package directions until al dente (around 10–12 minutes).
  5. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper.
  6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in the creamy pasta. Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or swap proteins such as chicken or venison for variety.

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

Super easy one-pot method means less prep, less mess.

Creamy, garlicky sauce that’s full of savory depth.

Perfectly tender pasta absorbs all the rich flavors.

Family-friendly comfort food that’s sure to please.

Flexible: add your favorite veggies or swap proteins if you like.

Ingredients : One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

  • 1 lb ground beef (or chicken thigh mince for a lighter option)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 8 ounces penne or spaghetti pasta
  • 1/2 cup beef broth (or chicken broth if using chicken mince)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Optional substitutions and add-ins:

Swap ground beef for ground chicken or venison for a milder or gamey twist.

Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies.

Stir in red pepper flakes for a subtle heat boost.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until fully cooked and no longer pink.
  • Add butter and minced garlic to the pot; sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and golden.
  • Stir in dried Italian seasoning and pour in the broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Add pasta ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook according to the pasta package directions until al dente (usually around 10-12 minutes).
  • Remove from heat and immediately stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. This dish isn’t ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce and pasta texture, but you can freeze cooked ground beef or chicken separately for future quick meals.

Serving Suggestions and Garnish Ideas

Serve this pasta with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Garnish with extra Parmesan or toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. A side of roasted vegetables also complements the creamy richness perfectly.

Optional Add-ons or Variations

  • For a cheesy twist, mix in mozzarella or cream cheese at the end.
  • Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean flavor boost.
  • Try smoked chicken or venison ham pieces for a savory smoky note.

This dish draws inspiration from classic Italian pasta dishes with a modern, American twist focusing on simplicity and maximum flavor from minimal ingredients. It’s perfect for home cooks craving comfort and convenience.