There is something absolutely magical about savoring a deeply satisfying bowl of One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta. Picture fork-tender penne coated in a velvety, garlicky butter sauce, mingling with savory beef and gooey, melty cheese—all made effortlessly in a single pot. The flavors are robust and comforting, making this dish a beloved favorite for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a little luxury without hours over the stove. If you crave something hearty and crave-worthy with minimal fuss, you simply have to try One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta.

One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is how a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create genuine magic. Each element plays an important role, building up layers of flavor, texture, and even that picture-perfect cheesy stretch.

Ground Beef (1 pound): Brings a meaty depth and richness that forms the heart of the dish.
Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons, divided): The buttery foundation adds silkiness and enhances the garlic for a luscious finish.
Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds a gentle natural sweetness and classic base flavor.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The star aromatics—don’t skimp! Fresh garlic infuses the pasta with bold, irresistible flavor.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings fragrant herbal notes that taste like a little trip to Italy.
Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For a playful kick that wakes up all the flavors (adjust to your spice preference).
Marinara Sauce (1 24-ounce jar): Easy, tangy, and perfect for a one-pot pasta—your favorite jarred sauce works beautifully.
Beef Broth (3 cups): Deepens the savory notes and helps the pasta cook in flavor-packed liquid.
Penne Pasta (12 ounces, uncooked): Its shape holds onto the sauce—feel free to swap for rotini, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for making all the flavors sing.
Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A classic finishing touch—freshly ground is always best.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Adds creamy meltiness and that glorious cheese pull.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Lends a salty, nutty finish while thickening the sauce.
Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish): Brightens each bite and adds a pop of color.

How to Make One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Melt the Butter

Start strong by melting one tablespoon of butter in your trusty large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the butter is sizzling, crumble in the ground beef. Cook it, breaking up clumps as you go, until it’s beautifully browned with those little crispy edges. If there’s excess fat, give it a quick drain—just enough so things stay flavorful, not greasy.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Stir in the diced onion, letting it soften for about three minutes—it should become translucent and fragrant. Now, in goes the star: minced garlic, plus Italian seasoning and (if you like a hint of spice) those red pepper flakes. Cook this medley for just about a minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is aromatic but not browned. The smell at this stage is pure magic!

Step 3: Build the Sauce and Simmer

Pour in the marinara sauce and rich beef broth, giving everything a generous stir. Next, add the uncooked penne, salt, and pepper. Bring the works to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to medium-low and cover your pot. Let it all simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes so the pasta cooks evenly and the sauce thickens. The pasta will soak up the sauce and flavors—no separate pot needed!

Step 4: Finish with Buttery, Cheesy Goodness

When the pasta is perfectly al dente and the sauce coats every bit, stir in the remaining two tablespoons of butter along with all that lovely mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The cheese should melt into silky strands, blending into the sauce and turning everything super creamy. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Spoon the One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta into bowls and finish with a flourish of fresh chopped parsley. It adds color, freshness, and a little zip—don’t skip it! Now you’re ready to enjoy a seriously comforting, cheesy, and garlicky pasta that’s guaranteed to win over any crowd.

How to Serve One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

Garnishes

A generous shower of chopped parsley is a must for this dish—it brings a bright, herby finishing touch. You can also add extra grated Parmesan or even a drizzle of good olive oil for an elegant gloss. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or even a little lemon zest can add pop and personality.

Side Dishes

One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta pairs beautifully with crisp green salads tossed in a simple vinaigrette, or buttery garlic bread for sopping up the extra sauce. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also make fresh, colorful companions that round out your meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family dinner, serve the pasta straight from the pot at the table, letting everyone help themselves. For guests, try plating in shallow bowls and topping with a cheese crisp or fresh basil. If you love leftovers, pack it into ramekins, top with a little extra cheese, and broil for a minute for irresistible mini pasta bakes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually meld overnight and can taste even better the next day! Just be sure to cool the pasta fully before refrigerating, and use within three to four days for best quality.

Freezing

Yes, One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta can be frozen! Cool completely, then spoon into freezer-safe bags or containers. Lay them flat for easy stacking and quick thawing. Aim to use your frozen pasta within two months; to reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk, cream, or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top, covered with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Definitely! Penne holds the sauce beautifully, but you can easily swap in rigatoni, rotini, or even spaghetti—cook times may vary a little, so check for doneness along the way.

What’s the best way to make it extra creamy?

For an ultra-creamy finish, stir in about 1/4 cup of heavy cream just before serving. It transforms the sauce into something even more decadent without overpowering the garlic butter goodness.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Stir in some baby spinach, diced bell peppers, or sliced mushrooms when you add the marinara and broth. They’ll cook down perfectly with the pasta and add nutrition, color, and flavor.

Is One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta good for meal prep?

Yes, it’s fantastic for make-ahead lunches or simple weeknight dinners. Portion into meal prep containers, store in the fridge, and enjoy throughout the week—just reheat and add a bit of broth or water to revitalize the sauce!

What’s the best cheese for topping?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are classics, but you can also experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a blend for a unique cheesy crust. For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of smoked gouda or sharp cheddar.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience the cozy comfort of One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta. It’s so much more than the sum of its parts—one of those dinners that warms you from the inside out and is sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation. Treat yourself and let me know how your kitchen smells after you give it a whirl!

One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in a comforting and flavorful One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta that is easy to make and perfect for a satisfying meal. This recipe combines seasoned ground beef, savory garlic butter, and two types of cheese for a creamy and delicious pasta dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Mixture:

1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Pasta and Cheese:

1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
3 cups beef broth
12 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook Ground Beef: In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Saute Aromatics: Add diced onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant.
Add Sauce and Pasta: Pour in marinara sauce and beef broth. Stir in uncooked pasta, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 12-15 minutes.
Finish Dish: Stir in remaining butter, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Garnish with parsley before serving.