There’s something wonderfully comforting about those meals that bring you straight back to the dinner table after a long, busy day — the kind of dishes that wrap you in warmth the moment they hit the pan. For me, it always starts with garlic sizzling gently in butter. That familiar aroma has followed me from childhood kitchens to homes I’ve cooked in around the world. No matter where I am, that scent instantly feels like home.
Over the years, cooking has become my favorite way to unwind and reconnect. I’ve learned that the simplest ingredients often create the most memorable meals, especially when paired with a bit of creativity and a lot of heart. That’s exactly the goal behind Maison Recipes: to bring easy, flavorful recipes into everyday kitchens so families can enjoy homemade comfort without stress.
Today’s recipe, Cheesy Beef and Pasta in Garlic Butter, is the perfect example — creamy, hearty, and packed with cozy flavor. Tender pasta tossed in rich garlic butter, melty cheese, and savory ground beef all come together to create a dish that feels like pure comfort in a bowl. It’s quick, family-friendly, and guaranteed to become a repeat favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
There are so many reasons this recipe deserves a place in your weekly rotation:
- One-pan simplicity: Minimal cleanup and straightforward steps.
- Quick & satisfying: Ready in 30 minutes — ideal for busy nights.
- Comfort food flavor: Rich garlic butter + savory beef + melty cheese = irresistible.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters love its creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Budget-friendly ingredients: Everything is easy to find and affordable.
- Versatile serving options: Serve it as a main dish, or pair with salad or veggies.
If you love cozy pasta dishes with rich flavor and minimal effort, this one’s for you.
How to Make Cheesy Beef and Pasta in Garlic Butter
Ingredients
For the Beef & Pasta:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 cups dry pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work great)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Liquids:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes
- Extra Parmesan
Directions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the butter to the skillet with the beef.
- Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened.
- Add the garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Add the Seasonings
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to coat the beef and aromatics.
Step 4: Add Pasta & Liquids
- Pour in the beef broth and milk/cream.
- Add the dry pasta and stir to submerge it.
- Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
- Reduce heat to low.
- Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Adjust seasonings if needed.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Enjoy warm!
How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Pasta in Garlic Butter
This rich, comforting dish pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad
- Roasted or steamed vegetables
- Garlic bread
- A simple cucumber–tomato salad
- Sautéed spinach or broccoli
It’s also delicious on its own as a complete meal.
How to Store Cheesy Beef and Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth, or microwave in short intervals.
- Freeze: Freeze leftovers up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with extra liquid to restore creaminess.
Tips to Make the Best Cheesy Beef and Pasta
- Use freshly grated cheese: Melts smoother and gives a richer flavor.
- Stir the pasta as it cooks: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- For extra creaminess: Replace some broth with additional milk or cream.
- Don’t overcook the garlic: It should be fragrant, not browned.
- Add cheese off the heat: Prevents the sauce from becoming grainy.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes, cayenne, or spicy paprika.
- Veggie Boost: Add spinach, peas, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Cheese Swap: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gouda.
- Healthier Option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Extra Creamy: Add 2 oz of cream cheese before the shredded cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! Any short pasta shape works — rotini, bowtie, elbows, or shells.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes — use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives. The texture will differ slightly but still be delicious.
3. Can I cook the pasta separately?
You can, but cooking it in the sauce absorbs more flavor and creates a creamier dish.
4. Can I make it ahead?
Yes, but the pasta will thicken as it sits. Add extra broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef and Pasta in Garlic Butter is everything comforting food should be — warm, hearty, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s a dish your family will ask for again and again, and one you’ll love making because it’s so simple and satisfying.
I hope this recipe brings joy to your table and becomes one of those meals you can count on when you need something cozy and delicious. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!