If you crave a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe is the perfect choice. It combines tender chunks of slow-cooked beef with aromatic garlic and savory tomato goodness, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Every bite bursts with rich flavors and a satisfying texture that makes this dish a go-to weeknight winner or a cozy weekend treat. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor. Each item plays a vital role in balancing the dish’s richness, tang, and subtle spice, making the preparation straightforward yet incredibly satisfying.
- 2 lbs beef stew meat: Bite-sized pieces of beef that become tender and juicy during slow cooking.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds that signature punch of garlicky aroma and depth.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Brings brightness and a tangy base.
- 2 cups beef broth: Enhances meatiness and helps create a rich sauce.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor for a deeper, more robust sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a hint of earthiness and a Mediterranean touch.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Lends a sweet, herbal note to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth to the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the savory notes with subtle sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle spicy kick if you like a bit of heat.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or choice): The perfect vehicle to soak up that luscious sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the pasta for a creamy, salty finish.
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional): Adds richness and a velvety texture to the dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens with a fresh, herbal garnish.
How to Make Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Beef and Garlic
Start by cutting your beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces if it’s not already done–this ensures every mouthful is tender and easy to eat. Then mince your garlic finely to release its full flavor and aroma, which will infuse the whole dish.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Place the beef pieces into the slow cooker, then add the minced garlic, undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, onion powder, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything gently but thoroughly, making sure the tomato paste is well incorporated. This mix is the flavor-packed heart of your Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time. As it simmers, the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while soaking up the garlicky, herby sauce. The sauce itself will thicken slightly, developing a rich and comforting consistency.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
About 20 minutes before you’re ready to serve, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain the pasta well, so it doesn’t dilute the sauce when combined.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Stir the cooked pasta right into the slow cooker with the beef mixture. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and the heavy cream or half-and-half if you want a creamy touch. Cook everything together on LOW for another 5 to 10 minutes to marry the flavors and allow the cheese to melt beautifully into the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Once everything is simmered and combined, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top just before serving. It adds a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbal brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the dish.
How to Serve Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is an absolute must, as it adds wonderful freshness and a pop of vibrant green. Don’t hesitate to add a little extra Parmesan for those who love an extra cheesy bite or a drizzle of good quality olive oil for some silky richness on top.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread for mopping up every last bit of sauce, or steamed green veggies like broccoli or green beans to add a nice textural contrast and some lightness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in individual bowls topped with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for an elegant touch. You can also present it layered in a clear casserole dish for a family-style meal where everyone can help themselves, making it as welcoming and cozy as the recipe itself.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down before sealing it up to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too! Store portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the texture of the pasta may soften slightly after freezing, but the robust flavors will stay delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to warm evenly without drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While stew meat works wonderfully for slow cooking, you can also use chuck roast cut into chunks or even beef brisket. The key is using a cut that becomes tender during slow cooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe to a stovetop or oven method by simmering the beef and sauce on low heat for 2 to 3 hours until the meat is tender, stirring occasionally.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
Definitely! Half-and-half is a lighter alternative that still delivers creaminess. For a dairy-free version, you could try coconut milk, though it will subtly change the flavor profile.
How spicy is the dish if I use red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that enhances the sauce without overpowering the other flavors. You can always adjust the amount based on your heat preference or omit it entirely.
What pasta shape works best for this recipe?
Penne, rotini, or any pasta with twists or tubes are great choices because they hold onto the rich sauce well. Spirals or ridged shapes ensure every bite has sauce clinging to it.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that is as comforting as it is delicious, this Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe is a must-try. It’s a wonderful crowd-pleaser with hearty beef, garlicky depth, and creamy pasta that’s perfect for gathering around the table. I can’t wait for you to enjoy this dish as much as I do!
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Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker LOW) or 3-4 hours (slow cooker HIGH) plus 20 minutes pasta cooking and 5-10 minutes finishing time
- Total Time: Approximately 7 hours 30 minutes (using LOW setting)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Beef Pasta recipe is a hearty and flavorful meal featuring tender beef stew meat cooked slowly in a savory tomato and garlic broth. Enhanced with aromatic herbs and optional creamy Parmesan and heavy cream, this dish combines slow-cooked depth with perfectly cooked pasta, making it an ideal comfort food for family dinners.
Ingredients
Beef and Sauce
- 2 lbs (900g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little spice)
Pasta and Cheese
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for a creamy touch)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: Cut beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces if not already done to ensure even cooking and tender results.
- Mince garlic: Mince the garlic cloves finely and set aside to infuse the sauce with rich garlic flavor.
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Place the prepared beef into the slow cooker, then add minced garlic, diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together well to distribute the spices evenly.
- Cook the beef: Cover the slow cooker and set to LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Cook until the beef is tender and flavors have melded.
- Cook pasta: About 20 minutes before you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta in boiling salted water until it is al dente. Drain and set aside carefully to prevent sticking.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Stir the cooked pasta, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream (if using) into the slow cooker. Mix gently to blend flavors and add creaminess.
- Final slow cook: Cook the combined mixture on LOW for an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and flavors meld perfectly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh herbal note and serve the Garlic Beef Pasta hot for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or omit it for a lighter, tomato-based version.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit entirely if making for children.
- Pasta shapes like penne or rotini work well to hold the sauce, but feel free to use your favorite.
- If desired, add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to the slow cooker for added nutrition and flavor.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
