Description
Looking for a quick dinner idea that doesn’t compromise on flavor? This Garlic Butter Beef Pasta is a hearty, satisfying dish made with simple ingredients like ground beef, garlic, butter, and pasta. The combination of savory caramelized onions, tender noodles, and rich garlic butter sauce makes it one of the best easy dinner recipes you’ll ever try. Whether you’re hunting for new weeknight food ideas or just need an easy recipe to impress, this meal checks every box — it’s fast, flavorful, and family-friendly. Perfect for quick dinners, comfort food cravings, or adding variety to your weekly rotation of dinner ideas.
Ingredients
12 oz linguine or spaghetti
1 lb ground beef (85% lean recommended)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large onion, thinly sliced
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and brown for 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add sliced onions and cook for 10-12 minutes until caramelized.
4. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Return beef to skillet. Stir to combine, then pour in reserved pasta water and mix into a silky sauce.
6. Toss in the drained pasta and stir gently to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
7. Turn off heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and optional Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.
Notes
For extra richness, add a splash of cream or some grated cheese to the sauce.
Use freshly minced garlic for the most vibrant flavor.
Don’t skip the pasta water — it’s essential for a smooth, clingy sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous cup
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg