Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Rich and comforting Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta made with seasoned ground beef, a velvety garlic cream sauce, and tender pasta. A quick and satisfying dinner ready in about 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)

• Salt (for pasta water)

For the Beef

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon paprika

For the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream

• ½ cup beef broth

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Cook the Beef

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon.

3. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

4. Cook until browned and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes).

5. Drain excess grease if necessary.

6. Transfer beef to a plate and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low.

2. Add butter and let it melt.

3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).

4. Pour in heavy cream and beef broth.

5. Simmer gently for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

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Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine

1. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

2. If sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water.

3. Return cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine.

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Step 5: Add Pasta

1. Add drained pasta to the sauce.

2. Toss until fully coated and heated through (about 2 minutes).

3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

2. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

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Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoother melting.

• Do not boil the cream rapidly; gentle simmer prevents separation.

• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and texture.

• For extra richness, stir in 2 oz cream cheese with the Parmesan.

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.

• Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of milk or cream.

• Not ideal for freezing, as cream sauces may separate.