Creamy Garlic Butter Beef: 7 Steps to Comforting Bliss

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory flavors and a creamy texture in a delightful pasta dish. This recipe features a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage, enhanced by a rich garlic butter sauce, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. Imagine a cozy evening where the tantalizing aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Let’s dive into this delicious experience!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef

This creamy garlic butter steak dish is not just about taste; it’s about convenience and satisfaction. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:

  • Quick preparation time of just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Rich in flavor due to the combination of beef and sausage, perfect for meat lovers.
  • Versatile enough to pair with different side dishes, like garlic bread or a fresh salad.
  • Utilizes simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry.
  • Provides a creamy garlic sauce that elevates the dish, perfect for pasta lovers.
  • The addition of spinach not only boosts nutrition but also adds a pop of color.
  • Leftovers can be easily stored and reheated, making it a great meal prep option.
  • This dish fits well under the Italian cuisine category, satisfying any pasta craving.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Beef

Gather these items:

  • 12 ounces penne
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 8 ounces Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 8 ounces ground beef
  • 4 to 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
  • 1 cup low sodium beef broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
  • 3 to 4 cups baby spinach
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish, optional

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Step-by-Step

  1. Step 1: Salt a big pot of water and cook penne until just al dente. Scoop out a cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add sausage and beef, breaking them up. Cook until browned with crispy bits on the edges. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Step 3: Drop the heat to medium. Stir in butter. When it melts, add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the garlic smells amazing, about 30 seconds.
  4. Step 4: Pour in beef broth and simmer for a minute. Stir in cream and let it gently bubble until slightly thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Stir in Parmesan until smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, splash in reserved pasta water a little at a time.
  6. Step 6: Add the penne and toss well so the sauce coats everything. Fold in spinach and let it wilt into the heat of the pasta.
  7. Step 7: Add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan to your liking. If you want a looser sauce, add another splash of pasta water.
  8. Step 8: Top with fresh herbs and extra cheese before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Beef

Keep these in mind:

  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor in your garlic butter beef recipe.
  • For added richness, consider using a mix of heavy cream and half-and-half.
  • If you’re looking for a quick creamy garlic butter beef meal, you can prepare the sauce in advance.
  • Experiment with different types of pasta, like fettuccine or spaghetti, for a twist!
  • Adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the dish.
  • This recipe is a great way to use up leftover beef or sausage you may have.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Beef

This dish is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways:

  • Pair it with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Serve alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the creaminess.
  • For a comforting meal, consider adding extra veggies, like steamed broccoli or sautéed zucchini, to the pasta.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Garlic Butter Beef

To store leftovers, let the beef in creamy garlic sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Butter Beef

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Beef?

The secret lies in balancing the flavors of garlic and butter, ensuring the garlic is sautéed just enough to release its aroma without burning. Using quality ingredients like fresh garlic and good-quality beef will enhance the overall dish.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Butter Beef ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just warm it up, cook the pasta, and combine for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Garlic Butter Beef?

Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente. Also, avoid burning the garlic, which can turn the sauce bitter. Stir consistently when adding the cream to achieve a smooth sauce.

Variations of Creamy Garlic Butter Beef You Can Try

Looking to mix things up? Here are some delicious variations:

  • Try using chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
  • Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
  • Incorporate different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique taste.
  • For a low-carb option, serve the creamy sauce over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
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Creamy Garlic Butter Beef: 7 Steps to Comforting Bliss

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A cozy, creamy pasta dish made with ground beef, sausage, and baby spinach that comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: None

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces penne
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 8 ounces Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 8 ounces ground beef
  • 4 to 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
  • 1 cup low sodium beef broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
  • 3 to 4 cups baby spinach
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish, optional

Instructions

  1. Salt a big pot of water and cook penne until just al dente. Scoop out a cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add sausage and beef, breaking them up. Cook until browned with crispy bits on the edges. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Drop the heat to medium. Stir in butter. When it melts, add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the garlic smells amazing, about 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in beef broth and simmer a minute. Stir in cream and let it gently bubble until slightly thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  5. Stir in Parmesan until smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, splash in reserved pasta water a little at a time.
  6. Add the penne and toss well so the sauce coats everything. Fold in spinach and let it wilt into the heat of the pasta.
  7. Add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan to your liking. If you want a looser sauce, add another splash of pasta water.
  8. Top with fresh herbs and extra cheese before serving.

Notes

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 serving
    • Calories: 350
    • Sugar: 2g
    • Sodium: 500mg
    • Fat: 12g
    • Saturated Fat: 6g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
    • Carbohydrates: 45g
    • Fiber: 2g
    • Protein: 15g
    • Cholesterol: 50mg

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    Hi! I’m Margaret!

    A passionate home cook and food lover who loves nothing more than sharing my favourite recipes with the world.

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