Looking for a dinner that feels fancy but cooks up faster than takeout? This Garlic Parmesan Beef Pasta is your answer. Savory ground beef and tender pasta are tossed in a rich, creamy white sauce infused with garlic and parmesan cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest, yet it comes together in just 20 minutes on the stovetop. No baking required!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Without the Hassle
Unlike traditional Alfredo which can be finicky, this sauce uses the starch from the pasta water and a splash of cream to create a silky, foolproof coating. It clings to the beef and noodles, delivering a punch of garlic and cheesy goodness in every bite.
Budget-Friendly Gourmet
Ground beef is an economical protein, but when paired with these rich flavors, it tastes like a restaurant meal. It’s a great way to stretch a pound of meat to feed a whole family. Add a side salad, and you have a complete, satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 0.5 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 cup pasta water (reserved)
Instructions
- Cook pasta to al dente. Reserve 1 cup water and drain.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet. Drain fat.
- Add butter and garlic. Cook 1 min. Add broth and simmer.
- Stir in cream and simmer until thickened. Stir in cheese.
- Toss pasta with sauce and reserved water. Serve.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Ground Beef: Lean beef (90/10) is best to avoid a greasy sauce.
Pasta: Penne, rotini, or shells work well to hold the sauce.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for the best flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated melts much better than the jarred stuff.
Heavy Cream: Provides the rich base.
Beef Broth: Adds savory depth to the sauce.
Butter: For sautéing the garlic.
Smart Substitutions
You can use ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. If you want a lighter sauce, use half-and-half, though you may need to simmer it a bit longer to thicken. Spinach or peas can be stirred in at the end for color and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Boil a large pot of salted water for the pasta. Mince the garlic and grate the parmesan cheese.
Cooking Phase
Cook the pasta according to package directions for al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
Add the butter and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it bubble for 2 minutes.
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
The reserved pasta water is liquid gold. It contains starch that helps emulsify the sauce, making it creamy and glossy rather than heavy. Also, don’t let the sauce boil once you add the cheese, or it might become grainy. Gentle heat is key.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using pre-shredded cheese. It contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Buy a wedge and grate it yourself for the best texture.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 580 kcal |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 30g |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan and fresh chopped parsley.
Pairing Suggestions
A crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment. If you enjoy this creamy pasta, you might also like our Creamy Beef Pasta (30-Minute Meal) which uses a tomato-cream base instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I reheat leftovers?
Creamy pasta can dry out. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water.
Q2? Can I use milk instead of cream?
Milk is too thin on its own. You would need to make a roux (butter/flour) first to thicken it.
Q3? Is it spicy?
No, but red pepper flakes are a great addition if you like heat.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Beef Pasta is a quick, decadent meal that proves you don’t need hours to make something delicious. It’s creamy, garlicky, and sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
