Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe

For a comforting and satisfying meal, look no further than this Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta recipe. This dish combines tender beef strips, a rich garlic-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this flavorful pasta dish will become a favorite on your menu.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh ingredients you likely already have.
2. Quick to Prepare: Perfect for weeknight dinners, ready in under an hour.
3. Customizable: Easy to tweak with vegetables or different types of pasta.
4. Rich and Flavorful: The garlic-butter sauce elevates the dish with bold, savory notes.

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Slice the Beef: Cut the steak into thin strips against the grain for tenderness.
2. Season: Sprinkle the beef with salt and black pepper.
3. Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for the beef, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Add Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add a splash of broth or reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Season: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, if desired.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return Beef to the Skillet: Add the seared beef strips to the garlic sauce and let them simmer for 3-4 minutes until fully cooked.
2. Add Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring every strand is coated in the sauce.
3. Mix Well: Use tongs or a pasta fork to mix everything thoroughly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Plate the Pasta: Serve hot, either family-style in a large bowl or individual portions.
2. Garnish: Top with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic over jarred or pre-minced versions.
2. Don’t Overcook the Beef: Sear it briefly to lock in juices and finish cooking in the sauce.
3. Choose Quality Parmesan: Aged Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor.
4. Save Pasta Water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta for a silky finish.

Variations

1. Add Vegetables: Include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition and texture.
2. Swap the Protein: Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef for a different twist.
3. Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier option, substitute regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
4. Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

1. Side Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or mixed green salad.
2. Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.
3. Wine Pairing: Complement the rich flavors with a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Why This Recipe Works

This Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe combines the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and flavor. The savory garlic sauce is enhanced by the umami-rich Parmesan and juicy beef, making it a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. With endless customization options, this recipe is a go-to for any occasion.

Yield: 4

Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe

Print

For a comforting and satisfying meal, look no further than this Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta recipe. This dish combines tender beef strips, a rich garlic-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a meal that's sure to impress. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this flavorful pasta dish will become a favorite on your menu.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Pasta:
• 8 oz (225 g) pasta of your choice (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work great)
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
• For the Garlic Beef:
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or thinly sliced beef strips
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 cup beef broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For Garnish:
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

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1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta. Set aside.

2. Cook the Beef:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef or beef strips and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Garlic Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the skillet to deglaze the pan. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.
6. Add the butter and stir until melted. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Combine Everything:

1. Return the cooked beef to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.

5. Serve and Garnish:

1. Divide the Garlic Beef Pasta among plates or bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, savory flavors!

Notes

Upgrade the Beef: Use steak strips (like sirloin) for a more indulgent dish.

Cheese Variations: Add a touch of Romano or Asiago cheese for extra depth.

Vegetable Add-Ins: Sauté mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers alongside the onions for added texture and flavor.

Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta.