When the weather cools and evenings grow longer, there’s something magical about curling up with a bowl of creamy, garlicky pasta. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a slow Sunday dinner, this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table feel right at home. It’s cozy, comforting, and full of flavor — and the best part? It’s made in just one pot, with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

This recipe was born on a chilly evening when all I wanted was a warm, hearty dinner without a pile of dishes. Inspired by the rich, savory flavors of Italian-American comfort food, and my love for garlic butter anything, I decided to experiment. The result? A new family favorite that’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

There are a million pasta recipes out there, but this one truly hits all the right notes. Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:

One Pot Wonder – Everything cooks in a single pot, from the beef to the pasta, making cleanup a breeze.
Full of Flavor – Rich beef, aromatic garlic, and a silky Parmesan-infused sauce? Yes, please.
Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples.
Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters love the creamy, comforting flavors.
Customizable – Add veggies, switch up the pasta, or make it spicy — it’s easy to tailor to your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb ground beef – Lean or regular, depending on your preference.
2 tablespoons butter – Unsalted is ideal, but salted works in a pinch.
4 cloves garlic, minced – The star of the show! Fresh garlic adds unmatched flavor.
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste.
1/2 cup beef broth – Adds depth and helps deglaze the pot.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For that creamy, cheesy goodness.
8 ounces pasta – Penne or spaghetti both work great. Use your favorite!

Optional add-ins:

Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
A splash of heavy cream for extra richness
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

This pasta dish is incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights when you need something fast, filling, and full of flavor.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until fully browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed, but leave a bit for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter

Push the beef to one side and add butter to the empty space in the pot. Once melted, add the minced garlic and stir it around for about a minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn — burnt garlic turns bitter fast.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Broth

Stir in the Italian seasoning and pour in the beef broth. This step deglazes the pot, lifting all the delicious browned bits from the bottom.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta directly to the pot, along with just enough water to cover it (typically around 2 to 2.5 cups). Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until the pasta is tender, about 10–12 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan

Once the pasta is cooked and the liquid has mostly absorbed, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The sauce will thicken as the cheese melts and coats the pasta.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately, topped with extra cheese, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a kick.

Tips for the Best Results

Cooking pasta dishes in one pot can be a little different than boiling it separately. These tips will help you master the method:

Use Enough Liquid: You want just enough to cook the pasta, but not so much that you’re left with soup. Add water gradually if needed.
Stir Frequently: To keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom, stir it every few minutes as it cooks.
Use Fresh Garlic: It makes all the difference in flavor — don’t swap it for garlic powder unless absolutely necessary.
Finish with More Cheese: Parmesan adds saltiness and depth — don’t be afraid to go back for more.

Make It Your Own: Variations and Add-Ins

One of the great things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are a few delicious ways to change things up:

Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers during the pasta cooking step.
Swap the Meat: Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage work beautifully.
Creamier Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for extra indulgence.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check your broth and cheese for hidden gluten.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles — just cook them separately and toss them in at the end.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but here are a few tasty ideas to round it out:

Fresh Green Salad – A light side salad with a vinaigrette balances the richness.
Garlic Bread – Because you can never have too much garlic.
Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or peas are all easy and delicious.
A Glass of Red Wine – If you’re indulging, a bold red pairs beautifully with the beef and garlic.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Have leftovers? Lucky you! This dish reheats beautifully and even tastes better the next day.

Store: Place cooled pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between.
Freeze: Not recommended, as creamy pasta dishes can separate when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-minced garlic from a jar?
You can, but fresh garlic is strongly recommended for the best flavor.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your pot is large enough, and adjust the liquid accordingly.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all! But feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes if you want to kick up the heat.

What’s the best type of Parmesan to use?
Freshly grated Parmesan will melt better and provide the best taste. Pre-shredded varieties can be waxy or powdery.

Why This Pasta Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something deeply satisfying about a warm, creamy bowl of pasta — especially when it’s packed with savory beef, rich garlic butter, and melty Parmesan. It’s the kind of meal that makes you slow down and savor each bite. And because it’s made in one pot, it fits right into your busy life without sacrificing flavor.

If you’re craving comfort food that’s simple, quick, and completely crave-worthy, give this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta a try. It might just become your new go-to dinner.