Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe

If there’s one dish that captures everything I love about quick, comforting pasta dinners, it has to be this Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe. Imagine tender noodles wrapped in a velvety, garlicky butter sauce, loaded with savory ground beef and creamy Parmesan—all in about 30 minutes! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or just craving something rich and soul-satisfying, this recipe shines every time. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like the coziest place on earth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe relies on just a handful of simple staples that come together to create pure comfort food magic. Every ingredient truly pulls its weight, whether it’s adding depth, creaminess, or that irresistible savory punch.

• Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness; swap with ground turkey or chicken for something lighter.
• Butter: The heart of the garlic butter sauce—use real butter for a richer crust and decadence you can taste in every bite.
• Garlic: Four cloves minced add an aromatic kick; don’t skimp, as it’s the backbone of the sauce’s flavor.
• Dried Italian Seasoning: Just a teaspoon brings in those classic herbaceous notes that tie everything together.
• Beef Broth: Deepens the sauce and lets the pasta cook up with extra richness and body.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for a salty, nutty lift—freshly grated is always worth the little extra effort.
• Pasta: Any shape works, but short pasta like penne or classic spaghetti both coax up the sauce beautifully.
• Heavy Cream or Milk (Optional): Stir in for creaminess if you want an extra-cozy, silky texture.
• Salt and Pepper: The essentials—season generously to bring out all the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil (Optional): For a burst of freshness and color, plus a bit of herbal lift.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Bring the heat—add as little or much as your taste buds desire.

How to Make Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by melting the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with your spoon, letting it cook until it’s browned and cooked through—usually 5 to 7 minutes does the trick. If your beef gives off extra fat, go ahead and drain it off, but don’t skip the step of browning; it builds so much flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Seasoning

Next, add your minced garlic and Italian seasoning straight into the beef. Let them sizzle for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly. You’ll know you’re ready for the next step when your kitchen smells absolutely heavenly—garlicky, herbaceous, and deeply savory.

Step 3: Simmer Pasta with Broth

Pour in the beef broth and add your uncooked pasta. Yes, uncooked! This Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe is all about building flavor in one pot. Stir everything to combine and make sure the noodles are submerged as much as possible. Bring it all to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, giving it a stir now and then, until the pasta is tender and almost all of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Cream

Once the pasta’s cooked to your liking, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan. If you love extra creaminess, now’s the time to pour in the heavy cream or milk. Stir until the cheese melts and everything transforms into a smooth, luscious sauce that clings to every noodle.

Step 5: Season and Finish

Give your pot a final taste and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’d like it spicy. Give it a good stir, ladle onto plates, and marvel at your golden, glossy, not-so-humble pasta.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a handful of fresh parsley or basil. This last touch makes the whole dish pop—both in flavor and in looks.

How to Serve Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe

Garnishes

Keep it simple but special: a shower of freshly grated Parmesan, a smattering of chopped parsley or basil, and maybe a few extra red pepper flakes for heat. A drizzle of good olive oil also lends a fragrant finish, trust me, those little flourishes turn a comforting bowl into something memorable!

Side Dishes

This Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe hits all the right notes on its own, but it truly sings alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Pull out some crusty garlic bread for dunking, or serve with a citrusy arugula salad to cut the richness—dinner perfection!

Creative Ways to Present

Twirl it high in a wide, shallow bowl and dust with cheese for classic comfort. For a fun twist, serve in mini cast-iron skillets or topped with a fried egg if you’re feeling extra indulgent. It also makes an amazing pasta bake: simply transfer to a casserole dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil for a bubbly, golden finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover pasta as quickly as possible and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch extra tasty!

Freezing

This Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe freezes surprisingly well, especially if you skip the cream or add it after thawing. Portion cooled servings into freezer-safe bags or containers and store flat for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth, milk, or even water to loosen up the sauce. Stir often and heat just until everything is steaming hot. Add fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan right before serving to freshen it up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While the Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe is delicious with any medium or long pasta shapes, penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work especially well for holding that delicious buttery sauce. Use whatever you have on hand—the sauce is the real star.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Yes, you can easily lighten things up by choosing ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, using milk in place of heavy cream, and opting for a smaller amount of Parmesan or a lighter cheese. A big handful of fresh greens stirred in at the end also adds nutrition and freshness.

I’m dairy free, what can I substitute?

You can swap in plant-based butter and use your favorite dairy-free cheese (or simply leave out the Parmesan). Unsweetened almond or oat milk works well for creaminess, just adjust seasonings to compensate for the lighter flavor.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking?

Give everything a stir every few minutes, especially after you add the pasta and broth. Cooking the pasta right in the sauce helps prevent sticking, but a good mix now and then ensures perfectly tender, separate noodles.

Can I make Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! You can cook the pasta and beef mixture in advance, then gently reheat with a splash of broth or cream before serving. If you want that fresh melty cheese topper, wait to add extra Parmesan and fresh herbs until just before bringing it to the table.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a comforting, easy dinner that delivers on every single level, you need to try this Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile, and you’ll love how easy it is to make your own. Happy cooking!

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