Garlic Butter Beef Pasta

Few things are more comforting than a warm bowl of pasta coated in a rich, buttery sauce—and this Garlic Butter Beef Pasta delivers exactly that. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe brings together tender ground beef, aromatic garlic, and silky Parmesan cream sauce for a meal that feels indulgent but comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving something hearty after a long day, this pasta is guaranteed to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – A complete dinner ready in about 30 minutes
• Rich and comforting – Buttery garlic sauce with creamy Parmesan flavor
• Family-friendly – Simple ingredients everyone enjoys
• One-pan sauce – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor
• Customizable – Easy to adjust spice level or add veggies

Ingredients

• Pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne) – The base that soaks up the flavorful sauce
• Ground beef – Adds heartiness and protein
• Unsalted butter – Creates a rich, silky garlic butter sauce
• Garlic – The star flavor, adding bold aroma and depth
• Onion – Brings natural sweetness and balance
• Italian seasoning – Enhances the dish with classic herb notes
• Red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds gentle heat for spice lovers
• Beef broth – Builds savory depth in the sauce
• Heavy cream – Makes the sauce smooth and luxurious
• Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty richness
• Fresh parsley – Brightens the dish and adds freshness
• Salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance

How to Make Garlic Butter Beef Pasta

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary, then remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant—avoid browning the garlic.

Build the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine.

Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until fully coated in the garlic butter sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Finish & Serve

Stir in the fresh parsley, then taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley before serving.

Tips for Success

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce
• Don’t overcook the garlic—it should be fragrant, not browned
• Reserve pasta water; it’s perfect for fixing a sauce that’s too thick
• Let the sauce simmer gently to avoid separating the cream

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander for draining pasta

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Garlic Butter Beef Pasta – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce
• Vegetable-Loaded Version – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini
• Cheesy Upgrade – Add mozzarella or provolone for extra meltiness
• Low-Carb Option – Serve over zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta

Serving Suggestions

Serve this homemade garlic butter beef pasta with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper just before serving adds a restaurant-style finish.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.

Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this dish?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so freezing is not recommended.

Is this recipe very spicy?
No, it’s mild. The red pepper flakes are optional and easy to adjust.

Final Thoughts

This easy garlic butter beef pasta is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It’s cozy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for turning an ordinary evening into a comforting homemade dinner. Give it a try, make it your own, and don’t forget to share how it turned out. Happy cooking!

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