Name: Garlic Butter Parmesan Spaghetti with Savory Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 lb ground beef or thinly sliced beef; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 cup reserved pasta water

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Garlic butter parmesan spaghetti with savory beef is a comforting pasta dish that brings together tender beef, a rich garlic butter sauce, and plenty of parmesan cheese. I love how the flavors melt together into a creamy, savory meal that feels both indulgent and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between hearty and simple. The garlic butter sauce coats every strand of spaghetti, while the beef adds richness and protein. Parmesan ties everything together with a nutty, salty finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but feels special enough to serve when I want to impress. Garlic Butter Parmesan Spaghetti with Savory Beef

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Spaghetti
Ground beef (or thinly sliced beef)
Unsalted butter
Garlic cloves, minced
Olive oil
Grated parmesan cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

I start by cooking the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, then I reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil and cook the beef until browned and savory, seasoning it with salt and pepper. I transfer it to a plate.
In the same skillet, I melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
I return the beef to the skillet, then add the cooked spaghetti and toss everything together.
I stir in grated parmesan, loosening with a little pasta water until it creates a silky sauce that clings to the noodles.
I finish with freshly chopped parsley and, if I want some heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes.
I serve it hot with extra parmesan sprinkled on top.

Servings and timing

This dish serves about 4 people. It usually takes me around 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so the whole meal comes together in about 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I swap spaghetti for fettuccine or linguine. If I want a lighter version, I use ground turkey instead of beef. I’ve also added sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. A splash of cream can make it even richer, almost like a creamy Alfredo-style pasta.

Storage/reheating

I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I like to warm it in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to bring back the silky texture. The microwave works too, though the pasta can dry out if I don’t add a little moisture. Garlic Butter Parmesan Spaghetti with Savory Beef

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, I often use linguine, penne, or fettuccine if I don’t have spaghetti on hand.

What kind of beef works best?

I prefer lean ground beef, but thinly sliced sirloin also makes the dish delicious and more steak-like.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely—I skip the beef and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli for a hearty vegetarian version.

Do I have to use fresh parmesan?

I find fresh parmesan melts better and gives a richer flavor, but pre-grated works if that’s what I have.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?

I always toss the drained spaghetti directly into the sauce—it keeps the strands separate and helps them absorb flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic butter parmesan spaghetti with savory beef is one of my go-to comfort meals. I love how it’s quick to prepare but tastes like something from a cozy Italian kitchen. The combination of garlic, butter, beef, and parmesan is timeless, and it never fails to satisfy.