One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
Rich, comforting, and incredibly easy — this creamy beef pasta cooks all in ONE pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Tender fettuccine simmers directly in a savory garlic butter beef sauce, finished with cream cheese for that ultra-smooth, cozy texture. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One pot = easy cleanup
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Family-friendly and kid-approved
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Ready in about 30 minutes
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Rich, creamy, and comforting
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Budget-friendly ingredients
Ingredients
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12 oz fettuccine pasta
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, finely diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups beef broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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2 tbsp butter
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp paprika
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Sliced green onions (for garnish)
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Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
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Optional: sour cream for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Build the Flavor Base
In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 3: Add Liquids & Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (that’s flavor!). Add the uncooked fettuccine and press it down so it’s mostly submerged.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Add softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until melted and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
Step 6: Finish & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with green onions and parsley. Add a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra richness if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations
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Add mushrooms for earthy flavor
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Stir in spinach at the end
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Swap fettuccine for penne or rotini
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Add shredded mozzarella or parmesan
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Make it spicy with red pepper flakes
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Use ground turkey instead of beef
20 Helpful Tips
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Use room temperature cream cheese so it melts smoothly.
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Stir pasta occasionally to prevent sticking.
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If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth.
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Don’t overcook the pasta — it will continue to thicken as it sits.
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Fresh garlic gives better flavor than jarred.
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Use freshly grated parmesan for extra depth.
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Season in layers — taste as you go.
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Use a wide, deep skillet for even cooking.
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Slice pasta in half if your pot isn’t wide enough.
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Let it sit 5 minutes before serving for thicker sauce.
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Add a splash of Worcestershire for deeper beef flavor.
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Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for lighter texture.
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Deglaze the pan well for richer flavor.
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Garnish right before serving for fresh color.
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Add butter at the end for extra silkiness.
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If reheating, add a little milk to loosen sauce.
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Use low sodium broth to control salt levels.
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Brown beef well for deeper flavor.
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Double the recipe for meal prep.
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Store leftovers in airtight container up to 4 days.
20 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Penne, rotini, or linguine work well.
2. Can I substitute milk for heavy cream?
You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
3. Can I freeze this pasta?
Yes, but cream-based sauces may separate slightly when reheated.
4. How do I make it thicker?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
5. How do I thin the sauce?
Add a splash of broth or milk.
6. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or peas are great options.
7. Is this kid-friendly?
Very! It’s creamy and not spicy.
8. Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and check broth labels.
9. Can I use pre-cooked beef?
Yes, just reduce simmer time slightly.
10. What cheese works best?
Cream cheese makes it smooth, but parmesan adds great flavor.
11. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days stored properly.
12. Can I make it ahead?
Yes, reheat gently with added liquid.
13. Can I use garlic powder instead?
Fresh garlic is best, but 1 tsp garlic powder works.
14. What if my pasta isn’t fully cooked?
Add a bit more broth and simmer longer.
15. Can I use chicken broth?
Yes, but flavor will be lighter.
16. How do I prevent curdling?
Keep heat moderate when adding cream cheese.
17. Can I add bacon?
Yes! Crispy bacon adds amazing flavor.
18. Is sour cream necessary?
No, it’s optional but delicious.
19. Can I use ground sausage?
Absolutely — it adds bold flavor.
20. What side dishes pair well?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted veggies.
