Garlic Parmesan Beef & Spaghetti Pasta

Rich, savory, and packed with bold flavors, Garlic Parmesan Beef & Spaghetti Pasta is the perfect comfort meal for any night of the week. The combination of tender, seasoned ground beef with a creamy, garlicky parmesan sauce creates a luscious coating for the perfectly cooked spaghetti. Every bite is a balance of hearty beef, sharp parmesan, and aromatic garlic, bringing a restaurant-quality dish straight to your table.

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish comes together quickly with simple pantry staples. The warmth of garlic, the umami depth of parmesan, and the satisfying texture of spaghetti make this a go-to recipe for those who crave a flavorful and fulfilling meal.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Beef & Spaghetti Pasta

12 oz spaghetti
1 lb ground beef
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and black pepper. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring frequently for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Make the Parmesan Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Add the drained spaghetti and toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with extra parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Beef & Spaghetti Pasta!

Storage Instructions

To store leftovers, transfer the cooled Garlic Parmesan Beef & Spaghetti Pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to restore the creamy texture. For best results, warm it on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

If you want to freeze this dish, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the creamy sauce may slightly change in texture after freezing.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: ~650 kcal
Protein: ~32g
Carbohydrates: ~55g
Fat: ~35g
Saturated Fat: ~18g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~3g
Sodium: ~480mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute spaghetti with fettuccine, penne, or any pasta you prefer. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works well.

2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or cashew milk can work.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. You can also drizzle some hot sauce before serving.

4. What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or water. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions to enhance flavor and texture.

6. Is ground beef the only protein option?

No, you can swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, cook the pasta fresh and store the sauce separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

8. What cheeses work well in this recipe?

Parmesan is the classic choice, but you can also use pecorino romano, asiago, or a blend of Italian cheeses for added depth.