Perfect for cozy weeknights, family dinners, or when you’re just craving something savory and satisfying, this One-Pot Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Pasta is the dish that checks all the boxes.

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of pasta — especially when it’s smothered in a rich, garlicky, buttery cream sauce and packed with the hearty flavor of seasoned ground beef. This dish was inspired by our family’s love of quick comfort food — something that feels like a hug in a bowl, without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s become a weeknight staple we turn to again and again.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this easy one-pot pasta recipe is a winner. Let’s dive into why it’s worth making tonight!

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

This recipe isn’t just about convenience — it’s about big flavor with minimal effort. Here’s why it deserves a place in your regular dinner rotation:

✅ One pot = fewer dishes
Say goodbye to piles of pans. This entire meal cooks in one skillet or Dutch oven for easy cleanup.
🧄 Garlic butter perfection
The garlic-butter combo creates an aromatic base that enhances every bite.
🍝 Creamy, cheesy sauce
Parmesan, mozzarella, and cream meld into a rich sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.
🥩 Savory ground beef
Hearty and flavorful, beef adds satisfying protein to make this a complete meal.
⏱️ Quick to make
Ready in just 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
🌿 Customizable
Add your favorite veggies, swap the protein, or adjust the heat — this recipe is endlessly versatile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of what goes into this irresistible one-pot pasta. Simple pantry staples come together to make something truly special.

1 lb ground beef – Lean ground beef works well; opt for 85/15 for flavor with less grease.
8 oz pasta – Penne or rotini are perfect; they hold sauce beautifully.
4 cups beef broth – Adds depth of flavor and helps cook the pasta.
1 tablespoon olive oil – For browning the beef and adding richness.
3 tablespoons butter – The base for that delicious garlic butter flavor.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic makes all the difference here.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds herby depth to the dish.
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a subtle kick.
1/2 teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and color.
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For umami and richness.
1/2 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce irresistibly creamy.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully into the sauce.
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish) – Fresh and colorful finish.

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Pasta

You don’t need to be a chef to make this recipe. Just follow these simple steps for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks (about 5–7 minutes).
Tip: If there’s excess grease, drain it before moving to the next step.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Add butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), paprika, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Stir and sauté for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the spices bloom in the butter.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Add the uncooked pasta, stir to combine, and bring everything to a boil.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
The pasta should be al dente and most of the liquid absorbed by the end of this step.

Step 4: Make it Creamy and Cheesy

Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese. Continue to stir until all the cheese has melted into a silky, creamy sauce.

Let the pasta rest off-heat for 3–5 minutes so the sauce can thicken slightly. This short resting period helps the flavors meld and gives the sauce a luscious texture.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for color and brightness.
Serve hot, ideally with warm bread or a side salad. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for the Best One-Pot Pasta

Cooking pasta in one pot may sound easy (and it is!), but these extra tips ensure it’s absolutely perfect every time:

Use high-quality broth: Since it flavors both the pasta and sauce, a good broth goes a long way.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep an eye on it so it stays firm and doesn’t turn mushy.
Customize the protein: You can swap in ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Add greens: Spinach or kale stirred in at the end adds nutrition and color.
Spice it up: Want more heat? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Beef Pasta

Although this dish is a complete meal on its own, here are some ideas to round it out:

Garlic bread or baguette – Perfect for mopping up the sauce.
Caesar salad – The crisp romaine and tangy dressing contrast the creamy pasta.
Roasted vegetables – Try broccoli, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy balance.
A glass of red wine – A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon pairs wonderfully with the savory beef and cheese.

Why One-Pot Meals Are a Game-Changer

If you’re new to the world of one-pot meals, prepare to be converted. Here’s why they’re amazing:

Minimal cleanup – Fewer dishes means more time to relax after dinner.
Efficient cooking – Everything cooks together, saving both time and energy.
Flavor development – Pasta cooked in broth absorbs more flavor than pasta cooked in water.
Great for meal prep – One-pot meals often taste even better the next day.

Variations to Try

This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Here are some tasty twists:

Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning and swap mozzarella for a Mexican cheese blend.
Creamy Tomato Version: Stir in a few tablespoons of tomato paste or marinara before adding cream.
Bacon Lovers: Add crispy chopped bacon before serving for smoky crunch.
Mushroom Boost: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the beef for an earthy layer of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Shells, elbows, or fusilli work great. Just make sure to monitor the cook time since different pasta shapes may vary slightly.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! This dish reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze it?

Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze perfectly, as they can separate. However, this pasta can be frozen in a pinch and still tastes great after reheating, especially if you stir in a bit of cream or cheese to bring it back to life.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 640 kcal
Protein: 28g
Fat: 37g
Carbs: 49g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g

(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on brands used.)

Final Thoughts: Try This One-Pot Wonder Tonight!

There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning a handful of simple ingredients into a dinner the whole family will rave about. This One-Pot Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Pasta is the kind of recipe you’ll keep in your back pocket — easy enough for weeknights, but indulgent enough to serve guests.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s rich, hearty, and guaranteed to impress without hours in the kitchen, this is it. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite comfort food.