Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta with Ground Beef

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of pasta drenched in a creamy, garlicky sauce, especially when it’s packed with seasoned ground beef. My love for Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta with Ground Beef stems from those busy weeknights when I need a hearty, delicious meal that cooks in a flash. Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for both family dinners and casual gatherings, but it also offers a delightful balance of flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Why make this recipe

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta with Ground Beef is a gem worth making for various reasons. First off, it’s incredibly quick to whip up—ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence. It’s also budget-friendly, requiring just a handful of pantry staples, so you can indulge without breaking the bank.

Kids adore the rich, creamy flavors, and it’s a great way to sneak in some protein. Whether you’re hosting friends for a cozy dinner or just cooking for yourself, this dish deserves a regular spot in your meal rotation.

"I made this pasta for my kids and they absolutely loved it! It’s now a weekly staple in our house!" – A happy home cook

How to make Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta with Ground Beef

Step-by-step Guide to Cooking It

Ready to bring this comforting dish to life? The process is straightforward, no prior culinary expertise required. Below is a brief overview of how to prepare this yummy meal before we dive into the nitty-gritty details.

1. Cook your pasta until al dente.
2. Sauté garlic in melted butter for that aromatic flavor.
3. Brown the ground beef until it’s bubbly and rich.
4. Combine everything with heavy cream and cheese for the ultimate sauce.
5. Toss in your cooked pasta, season, and serve!

Ingredients

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delectable Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta with Ground Beef:

• 8 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work great)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional for that pop of color)

Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter version!

Directions

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.

2. Melt the butter: In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

3. Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant—don’t let it burn!

4. Brown the beef: Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked through.

5. Make it creamy: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until you have a luscious, creamy sauce.

6. Combine everything: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

7. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste for the finishing touches.

8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.

How to serve Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta with Ground Beef

Best Way to Serve

This creamy delight is best enjoyed warm, straight from the pot. To elevate your meal, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread for a true Italian feast. A fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables also pairs beautifully, offering a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the pasta. For an extra touch, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for those who enjoy a bit of heat!

How to store

Storage Tips

Leftover Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you find yourself with a sizable portion, consider freezing it! Just make sure to freeze in a freezer-safe container. Reheating is simple; thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore its creamy texture. Always remember to handle food safely, keeping perishable items refrigerated.

Tips to make

Pro Chef Tips

• Don’t overcook your pasta: Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook when tossed with the hot sauce.
• Quality of ingredients: Use fresh garlic and good quality Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor.
• Adjust consistency: If the sauce is too thick after reheating, a little splash of pasta water or cream can bring it back to life.

Variations

Creative twists

Feel free to mix things up with this recipe! Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for some extra veggies. If you want a bit more zing, stir in sun-dried tomatoes or a dash of lemon juice. For a delicious spice kick, sprinkle in some smoked paprika or even a bit of cayenne for heat. The beauty of this dish is its versatility—get creative!

FAQ

Common questions

What pasta works best for this recipe?
You can use any pasta you like! Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even shells work wonderfully.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately and combine them just before serving for the best texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Just note that the sauce may not be as thick and rich.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken also works exceptionally well in this recipe, providing a tasty alternative.

Indulge in the creamy goodness of this dish tonight, and watch it become a family favorite!

Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta with Ground Beef

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Beef

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Description

A quick and hearty pasta dish featuring creamy garlic butter sauce and seasoned ground beef, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work great)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked through.
5. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until you have a creamy sauce.
6. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste and serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Consider serving with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 22g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: pasta, creamy, garlic butter, ground beef, quick meal, weeknight dinner