One-Pot Beef & Garlic Pasta (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Base Ingredients
01 -
8 ounces pasta (penne or spaghetti works well)
→ For the Beef & Sauce
02 -
1 lb ground beef
03 -
2 tablespoons butter
04 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 medium onion, finely chopped
06 -
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
07 -
½ teaspoon salt
08 -
¼ teaspoon black pepper
09 -
½ cup beef broth
10 -
1 cup heavy cream
11 -
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ For Garnish
12 -
Fresh chopped parsley
13 -
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spatula to break the beef into small, even pieces as it cooks.
02 -
Add the finely chopped onion to the pan with the browned beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
03 -
Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the beef mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the beef and vegetables.
04 -
Pour in the beef broth, stirring and scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
05 -
Add the uncooked pasta directly to the pan, ensuring it's completely submerged in the liquid. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let the pasta cook in the sauce for 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
06 -
Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety. If desired, add crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
07 -
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top of the dish. Serve immediately while hot, perhaps with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
# Notes:
01 -
You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes in the last few minutes of cooking.
02 -
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though the sauce won't be quite as rich.
03 -
The pasta will continue to absorb sauce as it sits, so it's best served immediately after cooking.