Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe

This Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is the perfect dish for a cozy, comforting dinner. It combines tender chunks of beef with a creamy, garlic-infused sauce, all tossed with pasta for a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Best of all, using a slow cooker allows you to create deep, savory flavors with minimal effort.

This recipe will walk you through each step, with tips for customizing, storing leftovers, and creating a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker takes care of most of the work, letting you set it and forget it.
2. Incredibly Flavorful: Garlic, tender beef, and a creamy sauce combine for a luxurious flavor profile.
3. Great for Meal Prep: It stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.
4. Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe with different types of pasta or vegetables.

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef

1. Season and Sear: Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil until it shimmers. Add the beef in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches) and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until browned. This step helps to lock in flavor.
2. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the browned beef chunks into the slow cooker. This will form the flavorful base for the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Aromatics

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
2. Add to Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings

1. Pour in Beef Broth: Add the beef broth to the slow cooker, which will help tenderize the beef during cooking.
2. Mix in Cream Cheese and Spices: Add the cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, basil, parsley, and paprika. Stir to combine. These ingredients will infuse the dish with flavor and create the foundation for the creamy sauce.
3. Set and Cook: Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Step 4: Add Cream and Milk

1. Add Dairy for Creaminess: Once the beef is tender, stir in the heavy cream and milk. This step will create a velvety texture in the sauce.
2. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or seasonings if needed. You may want to add more herbs for an extra boost of flavor.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta Separately

1. Boil the Pasta: About 20 minutes before the beef is ready, cook the pasta according to package instructions in a separate pot. Cook until al dente, as the pasta will absorb some of the sauce when mixed in later.
2. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta and set it aside until it’s time to combine with the sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add Pasta to the Slow Cooker: Stir the cooked pasta into the creamy garlic beef sauce in the slow cooker. Toss well to coat all the pasta with the sauce.
2. Allow to Absorb: Let the pasta sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb some of the sauce. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the creamy garlic beef pasta in bowls or on plates, depending on preference.
2. Add Garnishes: Top each serving with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and presentation.
3. Enjoy: Dig into this comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner!

Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta

• Use Good Quality Beef: Choosing tender stew meat or chuck roast works well because these cuts become soft and flavorful when slow-cooked.
• Searing the Meat Adds Depth: Although optional, searing the beef adds a lot of flavor to the final dish.
• Customize with Vegetables: For added nutrition, add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
• Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Adding the pasta towards the end keeps it from becoming mushy. Cook it separately, and stir it into the sauce just before serving.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch (use about 1 teaspoon if substituting).

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.
• Herb Lovers: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or rosemary can be added to brighten up the flavors.
• Cheesy Addition: Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese when adding the dairy for an even richer sauce.
• Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta for a low-carb alternative.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: Cream-based sauces can sometimes separate upon thawing, but if you choose to freeze, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on low heat and stir to re-incorporate.
3. Reheating: To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Side Salad: A fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed green beans or broccoli for added greens.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of beef?
   • Yes! Chicken thighs work best as they remain tender in the slow cooker. Adjust the cooking time as chicken may require less time than beef.
2. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
   • You can substitute with a bit more heavy cream or add a small amount of sour cream for tanginess.
3. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
   • Absolutely! Just ensure that you cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to maintain texture.
4. Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
   • Substitute coconut milk or a non-dairy milk with a splash of coconut cream for richness. Omit the cream cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
5. Can I add mushrooms?
   • Yes! Mushrooms add an earthy flavor that pairs well with beef. Sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, rich in flavor, and versatile enough for any occasion. By slow-cooking the beef, you’re rewarded with tender meat that melts in your mouth, and a sauce that’s creamy, garlicky, and utterly delicious.

The combination of herbs, garlic, and tender beef pieces will have everyone coming back for seconds. This meal is perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish. Enjoy!

Yield: 6

Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe

Print

This Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is the perfect dish for a cozy, comforting dinner. It combines tender chunks of beef with a creamy, garlic-infused sauce, all tossed with pasta for a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Best of all, using a slow cooker allows you to create deep, savory flavors with minimal effort.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef:
   Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sear the beef until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. (This step is optional but adds great flavor.)
   
2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker:
   Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
   
3. Cook the Beef:
   Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until the beef is tender.
   
4. Add Creamy Ingredients:
   About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese until well combined and smooth. Cover and let the mixture continue to cook on low for another 15-20 minutes.
   
5. Cook the Pasta:
   While the sauce is finishing, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it to the slow cooker. Stir to coat the pasta in the creamy beef sauce.
   
6. Add Parmesan Cheese:
   Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
   
7. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy this creamy garlic beef pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Notes

• For a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes after adding the pasta.
• You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter option, but the sauce may be less creamy.