In the world of comfort food, pasta stands tall as a timeless favorite. Add garlic butter and savory ground beef to the mix, and you have a meal that’s not only deeply satisfying but also incredibly easy to make. One-pot beef and garlic butter pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners when time is tight but cravings are real. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that delivers every time.
This recipe is built for convenience. By using one pot, you cut down on dishes and streamline the cooking process. Everything—from browning the beef to simmering the pasta and melting in the cheese—happens in a single vessel, locking in flavor and making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe fits the bill.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best one-pot beef and garlic butter pasta at home, including tips, substitutions, and creative add-ons to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef – Choose lean ground beef (around 85/15) for a balance of flavor and less grease.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and binds the garlic flavor into the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is key here for the best aroma and taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme that enhances every bite.
- ½ cup beef broth – Infuses the pasta with a deep, meaty flavor and helps it cook evenly.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty, and creamy; it brings the final texture together.
- 8 ounces pasta – Penne or spaghetti work well, but any short pasta like rotini or rigatoni will do.
How to Make It – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Continue to sauté until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not burned. The kitchen will begin to smell incredible at this point.
Step 3: Add Broth and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth, then add the dry pasta. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on medium-low for about 10–12 minutes. Stir every few minutes to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
Step 4: Finish with Butter and Cheese
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, reduce the heat to low. Add the butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly until the butter melts and the cheese creates a creamy, glossy sauce that clings to the pasta.
Step 5: Serve
Spoon the pasta into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan or chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple ingredients, big flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, beef, and Parmesan transforms basic pantry staples into something truly special.
- One pot = fewer dishes: Everything is cooked in a single pot, making cleanup fast and stress-free.
- Customizable: Add veggies, change up the cheese, or use different protein sources—this dish is your canvas.
- Comforting and filling: It’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for feeding hungry bellies after a long day.
Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and may leave the sauce gritty.
- Add extra broth if needed. Depending on the type of pasta, you might need an extra splash of broth or water to keep the pasta from drying out while cooking.
- Don’t overcook the garlic. It should be lightly golden, not brown or burnt, which would give a bitter taste.
- Choose the right pasta. Penne, rotini, or medium shells hold sauce well and cook evenly in a one-pot method.
Recipe Variations
- Add veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers in Step 2 to make it more nutrient-dense.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce gives it a spicy kick.
- Use a different protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage work beautifully in place of ground beef.
- Make it creamy: Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream along with the butter and cheese for a richer finish.
- Low-carb option: Swap traditional pasta with a low-carb variety like chickpea or lentil pasta.
Storage and Reheating
- Store: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to revive the sauce.
- Freeze: While you can freeze it, the texture of the pasta may change slightly. Reheat from frozen in a skillet for best results.
When to Make This Dish
- Weeknight dinners: Quick, hearty, and minimal cleanup.
- Potlucks and gatherings: Easy to transport and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Meal prep: Make a double batch and store in containers for the week.
- Comfort food craving: Nothing beats garlic, butter, beef, and pasta on a cold day or rough evening.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
This One-Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is more than just another pasta night recipe—it’s a celebration of easy cooking with gourmet results. Whether you’re looking to satisfy your own cravings or impress your guests with minimal effort, this dish is your ticket to success. Keep it simple, make it bold, and enjoy every comforting bite.