Go Back
Delicious Garlic Butter Beef Pasta with savory beef and garlic butter sauce

Garlic Butter Beef Pasta

A tantalizing dish featuring tender pasta enveloped in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, complemented by savory ground beef and aromatic herbs, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base Ingredients
  • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti Choose your preferred pasta for excellent texture.
  • 1 lb ground beef 85% lean recommended for a juicy, satisfying protein boost.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter The star ingredient for the garlic butter sauce.
  • 1 large onion Thinly sliced; adds sweetness and depth.
  • 5 cloves garlic Minced; infuses the dish with fragrance.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional; adds heat for spice lovers.
  • Salt and black pepper To taste for seasoning.
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water Used to create a silky sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking the beef.
  • Fresh parsley Chopped; used for garnish.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese Optional; for serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and brown for about 6-8 minutes. Remove beef from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt before adding sliced onions. Sauté for about 10-12 minutes until caramelized.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, return the cooked beef to the skillet, and stir to combine. Pour in reserved pasta water to create a sauce.
  6. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet and ensure it’s coated with the sauce. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley and optional Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.

Notes

To elevate your dish, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach. A splash of lemon juice can brighten flavors. Prep ingredients ahead for quicker cooking.