Creamy, savory, and loaded with garlicky goodness, this Garlic Butter Beef Pasta is the weeknight dinner you didn’t know you needed. Perfectly browned ground beef, tossed with tender pasta and smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, comes together so effortlessly you’ll have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. Whether it’s a busy Monday or a cozy Friday night in, this dish delivers both comfort and flavor in every bite.

What makes this recipe truly shine is its simplicity paired with flavor-packed ingredients. No heavy cream or fancy sauces needed here—just pantry staples and a few fresh touches like parsley or parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. It’s a family favorite for good reason, and once you make it, it might just become your go-to too.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Beef Pasta

This dish is fast, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious. The garlicky butter sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, while the seasoned ground beef adds richness and heartiness. It’s kid-approved, husband-devoured, and mom-loved all at once. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—add some chili flakes for spice, stir in spinach for greens, or sprinkle with cheese for extra indulgence.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

You can use almost any pasta you have on hand for this recipe. Penne, rotini, bowties, or spaghetti all work well. The key is choosing a pasta shape that holds onto the sauce. If you’re after that perfect bite with flavor in every forkful, opt for ridged or twisted pasta.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Beef Pasta

The beauty of this recipe is how minimal the ingredients list is while still delivering huge flavor. Every ingredient has a purpose and brings balance to the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef
Pasta
Butter
Garlic
Beef broth
Salt
Black pepper
Italian seasoning
Parsley (optional)

Each one of these ingredients plays a role: the ground beef adds depth and protein, pasta is the hearty base, and butter brings that luscious richness. Garlic is the star of the show, creating the bold flavor profile, while beef broth enhances the meaty notes. Salt and pepper season everything to perfection, and Italian seasoning gives a herby backdrop. Finally, parsley adds a bit of brightness to finish.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Beef Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add the Garlic and Butter

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Stir and let the garlic cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Add the beef broth, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the buttery sauce and mixed with the beef.

Step 6: Serve

Top with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Storing and Serving This Garlic Butter Beef Pasta

This dish serves about four people generously, making it ideal for a family dinner or next-day lunch leftovers. Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.

It also freezes well for up to a month. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and store in a freezer-safe container.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Beef Pasta?

Garlic Bread

For the ultimate garlic overload, pair this dish with toasty garlic bread to soak up all the buttery goodness.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons balances out the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Roasted or air-fried broccoli adds texture and a nice green contrast to the plate.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil on skewers give you a cool, refreshing side that pops.

Lemon-Parmesan Asparagus

Bright, zesty asparagus is a light pairing that doesn’t compete with the strong garlic flavors.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms cooked in a bit of olive oil and garlic make a cozy, savory side.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tangy carrots offer a flavor contrast that complements the pasta nicely.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Garlic Butter Beef Pasta, try these other delicious pasta creations from the blog:

Creamy Cajun Linguine for a spicy, velvety twist.
One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for less dishes and bold flavor.
Cheesy Baked Ziti if you’re craving a gooey, cheesy pasta bake.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for hearty indulgence in one skillet.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a cozy pasta night with hidden veggies.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add red pepper flakes or sneak in some spinach? Did the kids love it too?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Share your tips or questions so we can all make our dinners even better.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food favorites on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to meal inspirations: Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Beef Pasta is the kind of recipe that fits any night of the week. It’s unfussy, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, meal prepping for the week, or just want something fast and satisfying, this pasta won’t disappoint. Try it once and it might just become a weekly repeat in your kitchen.