Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Parmesan Beef
Introduction
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines the richness of creamy pasta with the savory taste of ground beef and cheese, then this recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Parmesan Beef is the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet simple to prepare. It has tender spaghetti coated in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and two types of cheese that melt into pure perfection.
This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy family meal, or even to impress guests at your table. It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, but it looks and tastes like something from a fancy Italian restaurant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this creamy pasta recipe, you only need a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (120 ml) beef broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (tender but still firm to the bite).
- Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the spaghetti aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until it turns golden brown.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Once cooked, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
- Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring gently.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until fully melted and smooth.
- Add the mozzarella cheese and stir until the sauce becomes creamy and velvety.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet.
- Add the drained spaghetti and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy garlic butter sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach the perfect consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Helpful Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the pasta – al dente texture works best because it absorbs the sauce better.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged cheese for a smoother sauce.
- If you like extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
- For a healthier twist, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the sauce.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter version.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 portions
- Difficulty Level: Easy
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti
This dish is already rich and filling, but you can make it a complete meal with:
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks.
- Fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette.
- A glass of white wine, iced tea, or sparkling water for balance.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – ready in 30 minutes.
- Perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors.
- Family-friendly and kid-approved.
- Looks restaurant-quality but made with pantry staples.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Parmesan Beef is the ultimate pasta comfort food. The garlic butter sauce is rich but not overwhelming, the ground beef adds a hearty touch, and the cheeses bring everything together in a smooth, silky finish.