Looking for a quick yet indulgent dinner that combines tender beef with a rich, garlicky sauce? This Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the perfect answer. Featuring succulent beef strips, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic butter cream sauce, this dish is both comforting and restaurant-quality.
Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s simple to make yet full of bold flavor. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of savory beef, creamy sauce, and tender pasta.
Ingredients
Serves 4
Pasta and Beef:
- 12 ounces (340g) fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 pound (450g) beef sirloin or ribeye, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garlic Butter Cream Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: About 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season beef with salt and pepper.
- Sear beef in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still tender. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes, if using, until sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Beef, and Sauce
- Return beef to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce.
- Add cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Toss until pasta is evenly coated and heated through.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Serve with garlic bread for a complete, indulgent meal.
- Top with freshly cracked black pepper for extra aroma.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 of recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 |
| Protein | 32 grams |
| Total Fat | 28 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 13 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 420 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Beef provides high-quality protein, iron, and B vitamins.
- Butter and cream create a rich, satisfying texture, contributing to fat content.
- Parmesan cheese adds flavor, calcium, and protein.
- Adjust cream and cheese amounts for a lighter version if desired.
Tips for Perfect Pasta
- Slice beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it will finish cooking slightly in the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor and creaminess.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra color and nutrients.
Variations to Try
- Substitute beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for different proteins.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of flavor.
- Swap butter with olive oil for a lighter garlic sauce.
This Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal, combining tender beef, rich garlic butter cream, and perfectly cooked pasta. Quick to make and full of flavor, it’s a versatile recipe that works for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Rich, hearty, and satisfying, it’s a dish everyone will enjoy — and it might just become your new go-to pasta recipe.