If you’re craving a comforting, rich, and downright irresistible meal, this Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need to bring joy to your dinner table. Combining tender ground beef with luscious garlic-infused cream sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a symphony of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug after a long day. From the first bite, the creamy sauce coats every strand and morsel, making it a standout favorite that you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create a decadent, flavorful dish. Each element adds something special — the ground beef delivers hearty protein and savory depth, while the garlic and Italian seasoning bring aromatic warmth and complexity. The cheeses melt into a creamy sauce that hugs the pasta perfectly, making every bite a delight.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine): Choose your favorite shape for perfect sauce coverage and satisfying texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the beef beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star protein of the dish, providing savory flavor and satisfying substance.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic’s sharp, fragrant punch is key to elevating the sauce.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch once softened.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings Mediterranean herbs that enhance the beef’s richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers a gentle smoky note for depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and accentuates the garlic’s bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A little kick for those who love a hint of spice.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce so it’s luxuriously creamy.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds savory depth and moisture to the sauce base.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The heart of the creamy texture that makes this pasta divine.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces salty, nutty richness and helps thicken the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese: Makes the sauce extra silky and smooth.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh herby note.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture — tender but still with a slight bite. This ensures it won’t get mushy when tossed in the rich sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the savory beef mixture.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s thoroughly browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon to avoid any big clumps. This step builds the meaty foundation of your dish. If there’s excess fat after cooking, drain it to keep the final pasta from getting greasy.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
To the beef, add the diced yellow onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more to release its aromatic magic without letting it burn. This garlic-onion combo is where the savory heart of the sauce begins to form.
Step 4: Add Spices for Flavor
Sprinkle in your Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together so the spices evenly coat the beef and veggies. This layering of flavors makes each bite complex and delightful.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Now, sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir it well to fully coat all the ingredients. This is the secret step that helps your sauce achieve that perfect creamy consistency when combined with the liquids next.
Step 6: Make the Creamy Sauce
Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Then add the heavy cream, bringing the entire mixture to a gentle simmer. This is when the sauce transforms into something velvety and rich, smelling utterly delicious.
Step 7: Finish with Cheese
Add the cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until they melt completely and the sauce thickens even more. This cheesy finish is what makes the Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with your luscious sauce, coating every piece. Let everything heat together for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the pasta soaks up that creamy goodness before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color to your plate but also introduces a hint of fresh herbiness that balances the rich sauce beautifully. For an extra touch, you might consider a light dusting of more Parmesan or even a drizzle of good quality olive oil to finish it off.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or some garlicky roasted broccoli for complementary flavors and a boost of veggies. A warm slice of crusty bread is also perfect for sopping up any leftover creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try plating this pasta in shallow bowls topped with a sprig of fresh parsley and a Parmesan crisp for an elegant crunch. Alternatively, serve it in a large family-style dish so everyone can dive in and enjoy the communal joy of this comforting meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a great option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover pasta, although the texture of the cream sauce may change a bit. To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and use within 2 months for the best flavor. When thawed, the sauce may separate slightly but will regain much of its creaminess when reheated gently.
Reheating
Gently reheat your pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to revive that luscious sauce texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to warm the dish evenly. Avoid microwave reheating at high heat to maintain the sauce’s silky feel.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Penne and fettuccine are great at holding the creamy sauce, but you can experiment with rigatoni, spaghetti, or even farfalle depending on your preference. Just be sure to cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Yes, you can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken which will lighten the dish. Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream can reduce fat content, though the sauce will be less rich.
Can I add vegetables to the Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers are excellent additions. They not only add nutrition but also extra layers of flavor and texture that complement the creamy sauce wonderfully.
What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?
You can substitute cream cheese with an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream and a bit more Parmesan for richness. It won’t be quite as silky but will still create a delicious sauce.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?
You can cook the beef mixture and pasta separately a few hours ahead and combine them just before serving. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain the sauce’s creaminess. Garnish fresh just before plating.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about this Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe that makes it an instant classic in any kitchen. With simple ingredients coming together in a rich, flavorful sauce, it’s the kind of comfort food that warms the heart and fills the belly. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do—trust me, it’s destined to become one of your favorites too!
Print
Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender ground beef with a rich, creamy garlic sauce. Perfectly cooked penne or fettuccine pasta is tossed in a luscious blend of beef broth, heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan, seasoned with Italian herbs and a hint of spice. A quick and satisfying stovetop meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
Seasonings and Spices
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until evenly browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release the aroma.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Make the sauce base: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the beef mixture and stir thoroughly to coat, cooking for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add liquids and simmer: Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Then add the heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate cheeses: Add the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until both cheeses melt completely and the sauce turns thick, creamy, and smooth.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the noodles in the creamy sauce. Cook together for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if using, and serve the creamy garlic beef pasta hot.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter variation.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach for extra texture and nutrition.
