One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a weeknight dinner that’s outrageously delicious and unbelievably simple! This One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the hearty, comforting meal you crave when time is short but flavor is a must. Everything cooks in a single skillet, creating savory pasta swirled with juicy beef, nutty parmesan, and rich, garlicky butter. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is destined to join your regular dinner rotation—perfect for those evenings when you want an amazing meal with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll want ready for this perfect weeknight meal—plus a few helpful notes for best results:

• Ground Beef: The main protein star; opt for leaner beef to cut down on extra grease.
• Unsalted Butter: For that luscious, rich base (salted works in a pinch—just adjust added salt).
• Minced Garlic: Brings out all the classic, punchy garlic flavor. Fresh is best for robust taste.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle all-over garlicky depth you can’t achieve with fresh alone.
• Onion Powder: Gives a sweet, savory background note—no chopping required!
• Mustard Powder: A little tang for balance—don’t skip it, it’s the hidden star!
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Basics for seasoning; always taste and adjust.
• Chicken Broth: Infuses the pasta with flavor as it cooks—much tastier than water.
• Cavatappi Pasta: Spirals are great at catching all the buttery, beefy sauce, but any short pasta shape works.
• Parmesan Cheese: For topping (preferably freshly grated for the best melt and flavor).
• Fresh Parsley: The final herby touch, brightening up each bowl (optional but recommended!).

Tip: Swap out the pasta shape, cheese, or herbs based on what you have—this recipe loves flexibility!

Variations

Don’t be afraid to make this dish your own! Here are some ideas to try:

• Switch Up the Protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles make great stand-ins.
• Extra Veggie Boost: Wilt in a few handfuls of baby spinach or toss in peas for color and nutrients.
• Cheese Overload: Mix in a handful of mozzarella or a scoop of ricotta for a creamier sauce.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a subtle heat.
• Herby Twist: Swap parsley for fresh basil or thyme if you’re in the mood for something different.

How to Make One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Ready to tackle dinner? Here’s how it all comes together—no special skills required.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start with a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Keep stirring for 6–8 minutes, until there’s no pink left. Drain off any excess grease to keep the sauce rich but not oily, and transfer that beef to a plate while you move on to the next step.

Step 2: Build the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet—no need to clean it!—melt your butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling gently, stir in your minced garlic. Give it about a minute: it should be fragrant, not browned.

Step 3: Bring Back the Beef & Season

Slide your cooked beef back into the skillet. Scatter over the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat all the beef so every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta All in One Pot

Pour in the chicken broth—they key to tasty, seasoned noodles. Then add your pasta, making sure the noodles are submerged so they cook evenly. Bring it all to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until your pasta is perfectly tender.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Grab a fork and forget about fussing! Dish up generous servings and finish each with a blanket of parmesan and a hit of fresh parsley. Serve immediately while piping hot.

How to Serve

This pasta is satisfying all on its own, but if you want to round out dinner:

• Pair with a crisp green salad and a squeeze of lemon for something fresh.
• Pop some garlic bread or a warm baguette on the table—it’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• For a cozy touch, ladle into bowls and serve with a glass of your favorite red wine.

Sometimes the simplest presentation is the best—this dish is pure comfort food in a bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftovers quickly and store in an airtight container in the fridge. This pasta keeps well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. The pasta will soak up more sauce as it sits, but it’s still delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the sauce and warm gently over medium heat or in the microwave. Stirring halfway through helps keep everything creamy and not dry.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is proof that fast, easy weeknight meals don’t have to skimp on flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or whipping up something tasty just for yourself, this recipe brings big comfort and joy with every bite. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how effortless and satisfying homemade pasta can be!

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