One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

If you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying, and easy dinner recipe that comes together in just 30 minutes, this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Pasta will be your new favorite!

This dish combines juicy ground beef, a silky garlic butter sauce, and two kinds of cheese (Parmesan + Mozzarella) to create a creamy, cheesy pasta that’s cooked all in one pot—no need for separate pans or draining water.

It’s the perfect family-friendly dinner when you want something hearty, flavorful, and quick.

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or rotini work best)
4 cups (950 ml) beef broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Add Garlic & Seasonings

Stir in butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cook for 1–2 minutes until garlic is fragrant and butter is melted.

3. Cook the Pasta in Broth

Pour in the beef broth and add the uncooked pasta. Stir everything together.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

4. Make it Creamy

Add heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.

5. Rest & Serve

Turn off heat and let the pasta sit for 3–5 minutes to thicken.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Time & Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~640 kcal

Recipe Tips & Variations

For a spicy kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Make it healthier: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cheese swap: Try sharp cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of mozzarella.
Lighter version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

What to Serve With Creamy Beef Pasta

This pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:

Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Roasted or steamed vegetables (like broccoli, zucchini, or green beans)

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months (though pasta is best eaten fresh).
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pot = less cleanup!
Rich, cheesy, and full of garlic butter flavor.
Quick and easy → ready in 30 minutes.
Family-approved and perfect for busy weeknights.