Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe

If you’ve been craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe is absolutely for you. Combining tender strands of pasta with savory ground beef, luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, and just the right touch of Parmesan, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight, yet delicious and indulgent enough to share with friends or family. Once you master this recipe, it just might become your new go-to for busy evenings or whenever you need a little cozy luxury on your plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, everyday staples, but each one plays a crucial role in bringing the Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe to life. From the rich beef broth that deepens the flavor to the sharp Parmesan that melts into silky goodness, every component contributes to that perfect harmony of taste and texture.

• 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine): Choose your favorite shape to soak up all the creamy sauce deliciously.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity base for browning the beef perfectly.
• 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this dish so satisfying and filling.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic breathes vibrant, aromatic flavor into the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds Italian-inspired warmth and complexity.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory depth without overpowering the garlic.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and brightens all the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild kick and rounds out the seasoning.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the creamy sauce perfectly.
• 1 ½ cups beef broth: Adds richness and a velvety texture to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that signature creamy indulgence that coats the pasta beautifully.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into a nutty, salty richness that elevates every bite.
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish that brightens the dish visually and on the palate.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your penne or fettuccine according to the package directions until just al dente—this means it will still have a slight bite to it so it won’t get mushy when tossed in the sauce later. Drain well and set aside, reserving a little pasta water if you want to tweak the sauce’s consistency.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until it’s fully browned and starting to crisp on the edges. This step builds the meat’s flavor foundation. If your beef releases a lot of grease, drain some off to keep the sauce rich but not greasy.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Allow these aromatics to cook just for about a minute until fragrant—you want that punch of garlic without it turning bitter or burnt. This quick step layers in the herbaceous, savory flavors essential to this recipe.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the seasoned beef and stir well to coat everything evenly. This acts as a thickening agent. Then slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to keep lumps out of your sauce. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it starts to thicken and bubble, transforming into a luscious base.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer again, stirring occasionally. After 3 to 4 minutes, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into a smooth, cheesy sauce. This is the magic moment where everything becomes decadently creamy and irresistibly flavorful.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your cooked pasta into the skillet and toss it well to coat every piece with that dreamy garlic beef sauce. Let it simmer together for another 2 minutes so all the flavors meld perfectly and the pasta absorbs some of that creamy goodness.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of color and a subtle freshness that cuts through the richness of the sauce. If you like a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add an exciting dimension that wakes up the palate.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette is a beautiful contrast in texture and flavor, providing brightness alongside the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or a warm crusty loaf is also a classic and satisfying choice to scoop up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual bowls topped with shaved Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for a glossy finish. You could also bake the combined dish briefly topped with extra cheese for a bubbly, golden crust that’s perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if stored properly. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can be kept for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta might soften a bit after freezing, so slightly undercooking before freezing can help.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to warm it evenly and keep that creamy texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are lighter alternatives that still work beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since these meats tend to cook faster than beef.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour and regular pasta, which contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, swap the flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta. This keeps the creamy texture without sacrificing flavor.

Can I add vegetables to the Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers add wonderful texture and nutrition. Simply cook them with the garlic before adding the beef for the best integration of flavors.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild by default, focusing on garlic and savory richness rather than heat. If you enjoy a little spice, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes either during cooking or as a garnish.

What type of cheese works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is ideal because it melts smoothly and provides a sharp, nutty flavor. Pre-grated cheeses often include anti-caking agents that can affect texture, so fresh is best.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up this Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe is like inviting a warm, satisfying hug right to your dinner table. It’s one of those dishes that feels both special and cozy, perfect for sharing or savoring on a solo night in. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a cherished culinary favorite you’ll want to make again and again. You’ve got comfort, richness, and incredible flavor all in one simple skillet—what’s not to love?

Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe

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4 from 55 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is a comforting and hearty dish combining tender pasta with a rich, savory sauce made from ground beef, garlic, Italian seasonings, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a deliciously creamy texture balanced by the robust flavors of garlic and herbs, making it an American-Italian fusion favorite.

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Ingredients

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For the Pasta

• 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. 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 thoroughly and set it aside.
2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
3. Add seasonings and garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant.
4. Make the sauce base: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well to coat evenly. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it slightly thickens.
5. Add cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it has melted completely.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy sauce. Let it simmer together for 2 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot for a satisfying meal.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
• Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for additional texture and taste.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired