Garlic Butter Beef Pasta Skillet

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A rich and creamy one-pot pasta dish loaded with savory ground beef, garlic butter sauce, and a touch of Parmesan for the perfect comfort meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 ½ cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Beef:
    • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil.
    • Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 5-6 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • Push the beef to one side of the pan and add butter to the other side.
    • Once melted, sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and softened (about 1-2 minutes).
  3. Add Liquids & Pasta:
    • Stir in beef broth, heavy cream, milk, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
    • Add uncooked pasta and stir to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid.
  4. Simmer & Cook:
    • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
    • Cover and let simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened.
  5. Add Cheese & Final Touches:
    • Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using).
    • Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Serve & Garnish:
    • Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes for the sauce to settle.
    • Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm!

Tips & Variations:

  • For extra creaminess: Add ½ cup more heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese.
  • Add veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
  • Make it spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
  • Protein swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef.

Enjoy your Garlic Butter Beef Pasta Skillet, a quick, one-pan dinner that’s full of rich flavors! 🍝✨