If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that combines rich flavors with minimal cleanup, this One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is bound to become your new go-to. With tender ground beef, fragrant garlic butter, and perfectly cooked pasta all mingling in one pan, every bite bursts with deliciousness. It’s the ideal weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without being complicated, making it just perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple but never skimping on flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of savory goodness, from the juicy beef to the creamy butter and the savory broth that brings it all together.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides rich, hearty protein and a satisfying texture.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds silky richness and helps carry the garlic flavor beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch to brighten the dish.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic depth without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Delivers a subtle sweetness to balance flavors.
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder: Gives a slight tanginess that lifts the overall taste.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat to complement the richness.
- 3 cups (24 ounces) chicken broth: Cooks the pasta perfectly and infuses savory depth.
- 8 ounces cavatappi pasta: Holds the sauce well with its spiral shape for maximum flavor in every twirl.
- ½ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, grated: Garnishes with a salty, cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, colorful burst to brighten each serving.
How to Make One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. This basic step forms the meaty backbone of the dish. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease to keep the flavors rich but not greasy, then set the beef aside for a moment as you prepare the garlic butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. When it starts to sizzle gently, add the minced garlic and cook for just one minute. This brief cooking keeps the garlic fragrant and mellow, releasing its natural sweetness without turning bitter. The butter will soak up that garlicky goodness, creating a silky base for the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned ground beef to the skillet with the garlic butter. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, kosher salt, and black pepper, then stir everything together so the seasonings coat the meat evenly. This step is where the flavors really start to build, giving each bite that perfect blend of savory depth and aromatic warmth.
Step 4: Add Broth and Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the cavatappi pasta right into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the pan, and let it cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the broth’s rich flavor. Cooking the pasta in the broth right alongside the beef saves time, reduces dishes, and ensures every noodle is infused with that delicious savory goodness.
Step 5: Serve
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top for an irresistible finishing touch. The cheese adds a salty creaminess, while the parsley lends a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness.
How to Serve One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a few simple garnishes! Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts gently over the warm pasta, offering a luscious finish. A sprinkle of vibrant, chopped parsley not only brightens the plate visually but also adds a herbaceous freshness that perfectly complements the savory beef and garlic butter sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish holds its own beautifully, but if you want something extra, try pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A crusty garlic bread or a light cucumber tomato salad can also add a crunchy contrast that makes each bite even more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in individual ramekins topped with a bit of extra parmesan and parsley. You can also try stirring in some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes before serving for a flavor upgrade. Offering lemon wedges on the side lets guests add a hint of brightness for a different flavor dimension.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To preserve the best texture, add a splash of broth or water before reheating to loosen up the sauce and keep the pasta from drying out.
Freezing
This One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container and store for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
For the tastiest results, reheat the pasta over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently and adding a bit of broth or water if it feels dry. This restores the silky sauce texture and ensures the dish tastes just as good as fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While cavatappi is great for holding sauce, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni will work well in this one pot recipe.
Is ground beef necessary, or can I substitute another protein?
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even try plant-based crumbles if you want to keep things vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply use a dairy-free butter alternative and skip the parmesan garnish or replace it with a plant-based cheese for similar creaminess.
How thick should the pasta sauce be at the end?
The sauce should be creamy and coating every piece of pasta thoroughly without being soupy. Adding parmesan cheese and stirring well at the end helps achieve the perfect consistency.
Can this dish be prepared in advance for a meal prep?
Definitely! It reheats wonderfully and is perfect for making ahead. Just keep in mind the freshness of garnishes like parsley—add those just before serving.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying out this One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe enough. It’s a cozy, flavorful dish that feels special without any fuss, perfect for sharing with family or friends on a busy weeknight. Once you’ve made it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a cherished favorite in any home kitchen. Give it a go and enjoy that amazing combo of beef, garlic, and butter all coming together in one comforting pot.
Print
One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a quick and delicious dinner option that combines ground beef, garlic butter, and tender cavatappi pasta cooked together in a savory chicken broth. Finished with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes for a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef
Dairy
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, grated for garnish
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Liquids
- 3 cups (24 ounces) chicken broth
Pasta
- 8 ounces cavatappi pasta
Garnish
- fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink and cooked through. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside while you prepare the next steps.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In the same large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the garlic butter. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together so the beef is evenly coated with the seasonings and garlic butter mixture.
- Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and add the cavatappi pasta directly into the skillet. Stir briefly to combine the ingredients, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the pasta cook until tender, about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Serve: Once the pasta is fully cooked and the liquid has mostly been absorbed, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley before serving for a burst of flavor and freshness.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives and use vegetable broth.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk after cooking the pasta.
- To add extra veggies, consider stirring in spinach or mushrooms during the simmering step.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
