One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 lb ground beef
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
05 - 1/2 cup beef broth
06 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 8 ounces pasta, penne or spaghetti

→ Optional Add-ins

08 - Crushed red pepper flakes
09 - A splash of heavy cream
10 - Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until fully browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed, but leave a bit for flavor.
02 - Push the beef to one side and add butter to the empty space in the pot. Once melted, add the minced garlic and stir it around for about a minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
03 - Stir in the Italian seasoning and pour in the beef broth. This step deglazes the pot, lifting all the delicious browned bits from the bottom.
04 - Add the pasta directly to the pot, along with just enough water to cover it (approximately 2 to 2.5 cups). Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until the pasta is tender, about 10–12 minutes.
05 - Once the pasta is cooked and the liquid has mostly absorbed, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The sauce will thicken as the cheese melts and coats the pasta.
06 - Serve immediately, topped with extra cheese, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.