Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe

If you’re looking for a next-level, comforting pasta dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, you are in for a treat with this Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe. Imagine tender pasta cloaked in a savory sauce of buttery garlic, seasoned beef, and just enough creamy parmesan to make every bite rich and satisfying. This is a dinner the whole family will request again and again, and it comes together with pantry staples in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re craving a weeknight indulgence or something crowd-pleasing for guests, this Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe delivers bold, unforgettable flavors in every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish truly celebrates the magic of simple ingredients coming together. Each component plays a starring role, adding flavor, texture, or a pop of color, so don’t skimp on quality. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe absolutely irresistible.

• Ground beef: Choose lean beef for great flavor without excess grease.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create that luscious, silky sauce.
• Garlic: The aromatic backbone; fresh cloves will give you the best punch.
• Dried Italian seasoning: Infuses each bite with depth and herbaceous notes.
• Beef broth: Intensifies the meaty flavor and ties the sauce together.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers salty, creamy goodness—don’t skip it!
• Pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice): Holds onto every bit of that buttery, garlicky sauce.
• Heavy cream or milk (optional): For an extra luxurious, creamy finish.
• Salt and pepper: Simple but essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
• Fresh parsley or basil (optional): For a hint of brightness and fresh color on top.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a little heat and excitement if you want it!

How to Make Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Start by choosing a large pot or Dutch oven—something big enough to hold all the goodness. Melt the butter over medium heat, and then add your ground beef. As it cooks, break the beef into crumbles with a spoon. You want the beef to brown deeply, which gives so much flavor to your sauce. Once it’s cooked through (about 5–7 minutes), drain off any extra fat so your dish doesn’t get greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Seasoning

With your beef still in the pot, add the minced garlic and dried Italian seasoning. Stir and let them cook for just a couple of minutes—they should turn beautifully fragrant. This simple step infuses the entire base of your Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe with bold, irresistible aroma.

Step 3: Add Broth and Pasta

Next, pour in the beef broth and add your uncooked pasta straight into the pot—no separate pasta water needed! Stir everything so the pasta is nicely submerged. Bring this to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat for a slow simmer. Cover and cook for about 10–12 minutes, giving an occasional stir. The pasta should cook to tender perfection while soaking up all the flavors from the beef and garlic butter sauce.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Cream (Optional)

When your pasta has reached the perfect texture and most of the liquid has been absorbed, it’s time for the best part—Parmesan cheese! Stir it in so it melts seamlessly into the dish. For an ultra-creamy finish, add a splash of heavy cream or milk. The result? A gloriously silky sauce that clings to every bite.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Before serving, take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning. Add salt and pepper as needed, and don’t be afraid to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a gentle heat—especially if you love a little kick. This final step really lets you make the Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe your own.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the hot, creamy pasta into bowls and finish with a shower of extra Parmesan and freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil if you’d like. This dish is best enjoyed immediately, piping hot and beautifully garnished.

How to Serve Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe

Garnishes

A shower of freshly grated Parmesan cheese really takes this dish from good to unforgettable, adding a salty creaminess to balance the rich beef. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil introduces freshness and a burst of color. If you enjoy a hint of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes provides the perfect finish to your Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe.

Side Dishes

This pasta shines beautifully on its own, but it also loves company. Round out the meal with a crisp green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette, or serve alongside warm, crusty bread to sop up every drop of sauce. For a more substantial spread, roasted vegetables or garlic bread make classic pairings that let the garlic-butter theme sing.

Creative Ways to Present

The Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe can go from rustic to elegant with just a few tweaks. Try serving it family-style in a big platter, or use individual pasta bowls topped with a tall twirl of spaghetti and a sprinkle of bright herbs. For a special touch, add a lemon wedge or a swirl of good olive oil just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool to room temperature and then transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, your Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days. The flavors often meld and deepen overnight, making leftovers extra delicious!

Freezing

This pasta is freezer-friendly! For best results, cool it completely, then spoon into a freezer-safe container and seal well. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for gentle, even defrosting before reheating.

Reheating

To bring the pasta back to its silky glory, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Adding a splash of milk or broth while reheating helps revive the sauce, ensuring your Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe remains just as creamy and inviting as the day it was made.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for this pasta?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage all work beautifully in this recipe. Just adjust your seasonings as needed since each meat brings its own unique flavor to your Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta for a dish that’s 100% satisfying and friendly for dietary needs. All other ingredients in the Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe are naturally gluten-free.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Penney and spaghetti both soak up the sauce deliciously, but feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand. Short pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli catch the sauce and ground beef perfectly, making every bite extra flavorful.

Can I skip the cream or milk?

Of course! The heavy cream or milk is optional—it’s there for added creaminess, but the sauce is still rich and delicious without it. If you’re dairy-free, you can use a plant-based alternative or simply omit it in your Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe.

What’s the secret to the best garlic flavor?

Use freshly minced garlic for the boldest taste and add it after browning the beef so it doesn’t burn. Letting it sauté just until fragrant is the trick to building rich, complex garlic undertones in your Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about tossing together familiar, flavorful ingredients and ending up with a dinner everyone raves about. I genuinely hope you’ll make this Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta recipe your new comfort classic—give it a try, experiment with your favorite touches, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

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