Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Parmesan Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is everything you need in a cozy, hearty meal. The creamy garlic butter spaghetti is perfectly complemented by the tender, flavorful Parmesan beef, making each bite rich and indulgent. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that delivers bold flavors in under an hour, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. The blend of garlic, Parmesan, and butter is simply irresistible, and with the added protein from the beef, it makes for a filling, complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Parmesan Beef:

• 1 lb beef (ribeye, sirloin, or flank), thinly sliced or cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan (plus more for topping)

For the Garlic Butter Spaghetti:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Cook the Parmesan Beef: Season the beef slices with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and 2 tbsp butter. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds before adding the beef. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 3–5 minutes. Sprinkle the beef with ¼ cup Parmesan and stir until slightly crusted. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add 4 tbsp butter and melt over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.

4. Combine and Serve: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and mix well. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total Time: 30–40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra spice.

• Different Cheese: You can swap the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or any other hard cheese for a different flavor profile.

• Creamy Sauce Variation: For a richer sauce, you can add cream cheese or mascarpone along with the heavy cream for extra creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. To reheat, warm the spaghetti in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper over the beef as it cooks for an extra kick.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can swap out spaghetti for fettuccine, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer.

3. Can I use frozen beef?

While fresh beef is best for this recipe, you can use frozen beef as long as it’s fully thawed before cooking.

4. What is the best type of beef to use?

Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak work best in this recipe due to their tenderness and flavor. Choose the one that suits your preference and budget.

5. How do I know when the beef is cooked through?

The beef should be browned on the outside and no longer pink inside. A meat thermometer can be used to ensure it has reached an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare.

6. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before adding the pasta.

7. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a milk-based option, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

While it’s not ideal for freezing due to the creamy texture, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Be aware that the sauce may separate when reheated.

9. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers can enhance the dish’s flavor and make it even more nutritious.

10. What should I serve with this dish?

This recipe pairs well with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light salad to balance the richness of the spaghetti.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Parmesan Beef is the perfect meal for a cozy dinner that’s both indulgent and satisfying. With a creamy, garlicky sauce and tender, Parmesan-coated beef, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers big flavor in no time.