Creamy Beef & Garlic Butter Pasta: Quick Dinner (Print Version)
Creamy beef and garlic butter pasta delivers rich flavors in a simple, satisfying dish. Tender beef, savory garlic, and a luscious cream sauce coat al dente pasta.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Beef & Aromatics
01 -
1 lb lean ground beef
02 -
1/2 yellow onion, diced
03 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 tbsp olive oil
05 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
→ Creamy Garlic Butter Elixir
06 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter
07 -
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
08 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 -
1/2 cup beef broth
10 -
1 tsp dried oregano
11 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
→ Pasta Foundation
12 -
12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
→ Fresh Finishes
13 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
14 -
More grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
15 -
1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
# Instructions:
01 -
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set aside while you prepare the other components of your Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe.
02 -
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef, breaking it apart. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat. Stir in 1/2 yellow onion, diced, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add 4 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
03 -
Reduce heat to medium. Add 1/2 cup unsalted butter to the skillet with the beef and aromatics, allowing it to melt. Stir in 1 tsp dried oregano and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, letting the flavors meld beautifully for your Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe.
04 -
Pour in 1 1/2 cups heavy cream and 1/2 cup beef broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This forms the luscious base for your Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe.
05 -
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Toss well to coat all the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Ensure every strand is coated for the ultimate flavor experience.
06 -
Serve the Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe immediately. Garnish each serving with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, and more grated Parmesan cheese. For an optional bright finish, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp lemon zest just before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra depth of flavor, consider browning the beef until slightly crispy before adding the onions. This adds a nice textural contrast.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
03 -
If you don't have fettuccine or penne, any short pasta like rigatoni or even spaghetti will work wonderfully in this recipe.
04 -
This rich pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Grater
06 -
Measuring cups
07 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 1049 kcal
Total Fat: 69 g
Total Carbohydrate: 67 g
Protein: 38 g