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If you are craving a comforting, hearty, and downright delicious meal that requires minimal cleanup but maximum flavor, then you’ve found it with the One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe. This dish brings together tender ground beef, fragrant garlic butter, and perfectly cooked cavatappi pasta all in one pot, creating a rich and satisfying experience that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Every bite bursts with savory goodness, making it a true weeknight winner that’s as easy to make as it is to love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor and texture without any fuss. From the rich depth of ground beef to the silky butter and punch of garlic, these elements come together beautifully and create a harmonious dish you’ll want to keep making over and over.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that forms the flavorful base of the dish.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a luscious mouthfeel when melted with garlic.
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced: Provides that irresistible, aromatic punch that elevates the entire pasta.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Reinforces the garlic flavor with a subtle, savory undertone.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Brings a gentle sweetness that balances the dish perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder: Adds a hint of tangy warmth to brighten the rich beef.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances and ties all the flavors together deliciously.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a subtle kick to keep things interesting.
- 3 cups (24 ounces) chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that cooks the pasta and blends all ingredients harmoniously.
- 8 ounces cavatappi pasta: Its corkscrew shape holds onto the sauce, delivering flavor in every bite.
- ½ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, grated: For a sharp, salty garnish that adds depth.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, fresh contrast that lifts the entire plate.
How to Make One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease so your dish stays perfectly balanced in texture and flavor. Set the beef aside for the next step.
Step 2: Infuse Butter with Garlic
In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook it for about one minute until fragrant and soft but not browned. This step is the soul of the dish, releasing that irresistible garlic aroma that sets the stage for the rest of the meal.
Step 3: Combine Beef with Seasonings
Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet with the garlic butter, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring every bit of beef is coated evenly with the aromatic spices. This layering of spices takes the flavor to a whole new level.
Step 4: Cook Pasta in Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and add the cavatappi pasta directly to the skillet. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and let it cook until the pasta becomes tender. The starch released by the pasta mingles with the broth and seasonings, creating a silky sauce that clings beautifully to every twist of cavatappi.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley over the top. These garnishes add a salty, sharp brightness and a pop of color that makes every bite as visually inviting as it is delicious.
How to Serve One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes can make or break a dish, and here a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese brings a salty, savory finish, while fresh parsley adds a burst of color and subtle herbal freshness. Feel free to add a dash of crushed red pepper if you like a little heat, or some lemon zest for a bright, zesty contrast.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp sides. A simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or crusty garlic bread all complement the rich flavors, balancing the meal without overpowering the main star—the One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, serve the pasta straight from the skillet, letting everyone dig in. For a more elegant presentation, twirl portions onto warm plates and garnish thoughtfully with parmesan and parsley, perhaps adding a drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for added texture and appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from the One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an equally satisfying meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, although pasta sauces sometimes change texture after thawing. To preserve quality, freeze the pasta and beef mixture without the cheese and parsley garnish. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to two months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of chicken broth or water if the pasta starts to dry out. Avoid microwaving at high heat which might make the pasta mushy. Once hot, add fresh parmesan and parsley to brighten up the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While cavatappi is excellent for holding the sauce, you can swap in penne, fusilli, or rotini—anything with twists or ridges works beautifully.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat.
Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, using beef broth will lend a deeper, richer beefy flavor that complements the dish nicely, just be mindful of the salt content when seasoning.
How can I make the pasta creamier?
Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half after the pasta is cooked, stirring well to create a luscious, creamy sauce that’s extra indulgent.
Is it okay to use pre-minced garlic?
You can, but fresh minced garlic always delivers the best aroma and flavor for this dish. If you’re short on time, pre-minced works in a pinch!
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients and a little time can result in a meal that feels special every time you make it. It’s a go-to recipe that brings comfort, flavor, and ease to your table, making weeknights effortlessly delicious. Give it a try—you may just find it becoming one of your all-time favorites!
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Print
One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One Pot Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines succulent ground beef with rich garlic butter and tender cavatappi pasta. Cooked entirely in one skillet, it offers an easy cleanup and a satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners. The savory combination of spices along with parmesan and fresh parsley garnish elevates this quick and delicious recipe.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasonings
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
Pasta and Broth
- 3 cups (24 ounces) chicken broth
- 8 ounces cavatappi pasta
Garnish
- ½ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, grated
- fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily, then set the beef aside.
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add Beef and Seasonings: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the garlic butter. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the beef with the flavors.
- Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and add the cavatappi pasta. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the Pasta: Cover the skillet and allow the pasta to cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the pasta is cooked and the liquid has mostly absorbed, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top before serving for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- Drain excess grease from the beef to prevent a greasy final dish.
- Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder in the sauce for better flavor and aroma.
- Stir the pasta occasionally while simmering to avoid sticking to the pan.
- You can substitute chicken broth with beef broth for a richer flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead.
- Serve immediately for best texture; pasta may absorb more liquid if left standing and become dry.
