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One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for Cozy Nights

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta transforms weeknight dinners into a cozy experience with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Beef
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier dish.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta (rotini, rigatoni, or penne) Gluten-free pasta works for dietary needs.
For the Liquid
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute half-and-half plus a tablespoon of butter for a lighter version.
For Creaminess
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Substitute with any melty cheese, such as mozzarella.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Consider Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
For Sautéing
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Salted butter is fine, just adjust added salt accordingly.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can suffice.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Can be replaced with regular paprika or cayenne for spice.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt To taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper To taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cajun Seasoning (optional) Omit if a milder dish is preferred.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional) Skip if you prefer it milder.
For Garnishing
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (for garnish) Basil can be an excellent substitute.

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by heating a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan and allow it to melt completely, coating the bottom.
  2. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season generously with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the beef is browned.
  3. Once the beef is cooked, push it to one side of the pot. Add the remaining tablespoon of unsalted butter and the minced garlic to the empty side. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir it into the beef.
  4. Stir in the uncooked pasta, ensuring it’s well coated with the beef and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing everything together. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir occasionally for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. Add more broth if it looks too dry.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat, and stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until both cheeses melt completely into the pasta.
  7. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. Consider adding red pepper flakes at this stage.
  8. Plate the creamy pasta hot and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 32gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Stir often while cooking to prevent pasta from sticking. Adjust seasoning to your preference, and ensure proper temperature for best results.

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