Move over, tomato sauce—there’s a new pasta night favorite in town. This Garlic Parmesan Beef Pasta features savory ground beef and tender noodles tossed in a luxurious, creamy white sauce. Infused with plenty of fresh garlic and nutty parmesan cheese, this dish is rich, comforting, and packed with umami. It’s an elegant twist on the standard beef pasta that feels gourmet but comes together in just 20 minutes on the stovetop.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Creamy White Sauce
Unlike Alfredo, which can sometimes be bland, this sauce uses the beef fond (the browned bits left in the pan) to create a deep, savory flavor base. The heavy cream and parmesan melt together to create a velvety coating that clings to every noodle. It’s rich without being cloying, thanks to the punch of garlic and black pepper.
Budget Gourmet
Ground beef is an affordable protein, but this recipe elevates it to something special. By pairing it with a high-quality sauce and fresh herbs, you transform a budget staple into a restaurant-worthy meal. It’s perfect for when you want to impress without spending a fortune or hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 0.5 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook pasta to al dente. Reserve water and drain.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet. Drain fat.
- Add butter and garlic. Cook 1 min. Add broth and simmer.
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat, stir in cheese, then toss with pasta.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Ground Beef: Use lean beef so the sauce doesn’t get greasy.
Pasta: Penne, fettuccine, or shells work well.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential. Powder won’t give the same kick.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated from a block melts best.
Heavy Cream: The base of the rich sauce.
Beef Broth: Adds savory depth and helps deglaze the pan.
Smart Substitutions
You can substitute ground Italian sausage for the beef for extra spice. If you want to lighten the sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though you may need to simmer it longer to thicken. Spinach or peas make a great addition for some green color and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Boil a pot of salted water for the pasta. Mince the garlic cloves. Grate the parmesan cheese.
Cooking Phase
Cook the pasta to al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
While pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a large deep skillet. Drain excess fat.
Add the butter and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth and let it bubble for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
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. Season generously with black pepper and parsley.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
The secret to a smooth sauce is removing the pan from high heat before adding the cheese. If the sauce is boiling when you add the parmesan, it can seize and become grainy. Gentle heat ensures a silky emulsion. Also, don’t skip the beef broth—it bridges the gap between the meat and the cream, marrying the flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is using pre-shredded cheese. It contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting properly, leaving you with a gritty sauce. Grate your own for the best results!
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 35g |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve immediately with extra cracked black pepper and a sprig of parsley.
Pairing Suggestions
This rich dish needs a crisp side. A Caesar salad or roasted asparagus works perfectly. If you enjoy savory beef pasta dishes, try our Beef and Noodles (Savory & Rich) for a brown gravy variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I reheat this?
Cream sauces can break when reheated. Heat gently on the stove with a splash of milk, whisking constantly.
Q2? Can I use milk instead of cream?
Milk is too thin on its own. If using milk, you’ll need to make a roux (butter + flour) first to thicken it.
Q3? Is it spicy?
No, but red pepper flakes are a delicious addition if you like heat.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Beef Pasta is a decadent treat that transforms humble ground beef into a gourmet experience. It’s creamy, garlicky, and utterly satisfying.
