Description
This Garlic Parmesan Beef & Spaghetti Pasta is a rich and creamy Italian-inspired dish featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a luscious parmesan cream sauce with savory browned ground beef and a hint of garlic and red pepper flakes. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect hearty weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and flavorful.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Beef and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Garnish
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
- Brown the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until completely browned. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Make the Parmesan Sauce: Pour in the 1 ½ cups heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Gradually add the 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Combine Everything: Return the browned ground beef to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly with the parmesan sauce. Add the drained spaghetti and toss thoroughly until the pasta is well coated and combined with the sauce and beef. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley on top for brightness. Serve immediately with extra parmesan cheese on the side if desired. Enjoy your rich, creamy garlic parmesan beef spaghetti!
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water when draining the spaghetti to help adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them for a milder flavor.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smoothest sauce.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
