Here’s a simple and delicious **One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta** recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s creamy, savory, and easy to make in just one pot!
### Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or rotini)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
### Instructions:
1. **Cook the beef:**
– In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.
2. **Sauté the garlic and onion:**
– Add the butter to the pot with the beef. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. **Season the mixture:**
– Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. **Add the broth and pasta:**
– Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, add the uncooked pasta and stir. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
5. **Cook the pasta:**
– Cover the pot and cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
6. **Make it creamy:**
– Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the pasta looks too thick, you can add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
7. **Adjust seasoning:**
– Taste the dish and add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan if needed.
8. **Serve:**
– Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired and serve hot.
### Tips:
– You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork if preferred.
– For extra flavor, add a handful of spinach or mushrooms to the pot during the garlic and onion sauté step.
– Feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand; the sauce will coat any kind well.
This **One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta** is rich, comforting, and so easy to make—all in just one pot! Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Enjoy!