Creamy Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter

Creamy beef pasta with garlic butter is one of those meals I created when I needed something comforting but still felt a little fancy. It started on a chilly evening when I had some ground beef to use up and a craving for something rich and garlicky so I whipped together a quick sauce with butter cream and garlic and tossed it with hot pasta and savory beef. It instantly became one of my favorite weeknight dishes.

Now whenever I make this it feels like the perfect blend of indulgent and simple because the butter and garlic give it that bold homemade flavor while the creamy sauce wraps around every bite of pasta beautifully. It’s a dish that’s easy enough for busy nights yet elegant enough to serve to guests and it always leaves the plates clean.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use to build the perfect creamy beef pasta with garlic butter:

• Ground beef – Adds rich flavor and heartiness to the pasta
• Fettuccine or linguine – Holds the creamy sauce well and twirls perfectly
• Heavy cream – Creates that luscious silky texture
• Garlic – The bold base of the flavor in this dish
• Butter – Infuses the dish with richness and makes the garlic shine
• Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for savory depth
• Salt – To bring out the flavors in every component
• Black pepper – Adds a little kick and balances the creaminess
• Parsley – A fresh garnish for color and brightness

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – For boiling the pasta
• Skillet – To cook the beef and garlic butter sauce
• Tongs – Ideal for tossing the pasta in the sauce
• Cutting board and knife – For chopping garlic and parsley
• Cheese grater – For freshly grated parmesan
• Ladle – To reserve some pasta water before draining

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

I begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil then I cook the fettuccine until al dente. Just before draining I reserve about 1 cup of pasta water in case I need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

While the pasta cooks I heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. I cook it until browned and fully cooked then season with salt and pepper and transfer it to a plate while I make the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

In the same skillet I reduce the heat slightly and melt the butter. I add minced garlic and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This step makes the entire kitchen smell amazing.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a low simmer. Then I stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

I return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine it with the sauce. Then I add the drained pasta directly to the pan and toss everything together gently using tongs. If the sauce is too thick I add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the perfect consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

I plate the pasta and finish with more parmesan freshly cracked black pepper and chopped parsley. Then I serve it hot and creamy while it’s at its absolute best.

Tips

If you want a lighter version you can substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream

I sometimes add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies

Don’t skip the pasta water – it really helps make the sauce silky and cling to the noodles

This dish is best served immediately but leftovers reheat beautifully with a splash of milk or cream

You can swap fettuccine for penne or rigatoni if you prefer a shorter pasta shape

Ways to Serve

I like serving this with a side of garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad

For a heartier meal add roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini

It’s also perfect with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing balance

For a family-style dinner serve it directly from the skillet with extra parmesan on the side

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make creamy beef pasta with garlic butter ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook everything then reheat it gently with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life.

What kind of pasta works best in creamy beef pasta with garlic butter?

Fettuccine and linguine are great but penne or rigatoni also hold the sauce well.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can but it won’t be as rich. Whole milk works best if you want a lighter option.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream.

See You in the Kitchen

This creamy beef pasta with garlic butter is cozy simple and always satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone feel at home. I can’t wait for you to try it and hear how it turns out in your kitchen!

Happy Cooking!

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