Introduction
Have you ever wondered what transforms an ordinary pasta dish into a mouthwatering culinary experience? Enter the beef and garlic butter pasta – a symphony of flavors that elevates comfort food to an art form. This recipe isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a carefully crafted combination of tender beef, rich garlic butter, and perfectly cooked pasta that promises to revolutionize your dinner routine.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound high-quality ground beef
- 16 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Timing
Total preparation time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Serves: 4-6 people
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces, until no pink remains (approximately 7-8 minutes). Drain excess fat to ensure a perfect beef and garlic butter pasta texture.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the beef cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet used for beef, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavor profile of your garlic butter pasta.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Add cooked beef back to the skillet with garlic butter. Toss in cooked pasta, stirring to coat evenly. If the sauce seems dry, add reserved pasta water gradually. Sprinkle with parsley, salt, and pepper.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
• Calories: 520
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
Healthier Alternatives
- Use lean ground beef or ground turkey
- Substitute whole wheat pasta for added fiber
- Reduce butter quantity and use olive oil
- Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers
Serving Suggestions
Pair this beef and garlic butter pasta with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. A glass of medium-bodied red wine complements the rich flavors perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Pasta: Always aim for al dente texture
- Burning Garlic: Sauté on low heat to prevent bitterness
- Skipping Fat Drainage: Remove excess beef fat for better taste
Storing Tips
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of pasta water to restore moisture.
Conclusion
This beef and garlic butter pasta isn’t just a meal – it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe promises to impress.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine work best, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or linguine.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Replace beef with plant-based alternatives like mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian version.