If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare, this Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta is the perfect recipe to try. Tender, slow-cooked beef infused with garlic and savory seasonings combines beautifully with pasta for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug.
It’s ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Large pot (for cooking pasta)
- Skillet (optional, for browning beef)
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients Overview
- Beef: Choose a tender cut like chuck roast or stew meat, as it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender in the slow cooker.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to infusing the dish with its signature savory flavor.
- Seasonings: A mix of Italian herbs, salt, and pepper enhances the dish’s flavor.
- Broth: Beef broth adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- Pasta: Penne, rotini, or fettuccine are great options, but any pasta you love works well.
- Cheese: Parmesan or mozzarella adds a creamy, cheesy finish.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast or stew meat, cut into chunks
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cups uncooked pasta of your choice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or shredded mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for browning beef)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Beef: If desired, brown the beef chunks in a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes per side. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker: Add the beef chunks to the slow cooker. Sprinkle with garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef evenly.
- Add Broth and Tomato Paste: Pour in the beef broth and stir in the tomato paste. This creates the flavorful base for the sauce.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Cook the Pasta: About 20 minutes before the beef is done, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Pasta and Beef: Once the beef is tender, shred it with a fork directly in the slow cooker or leave the chunks whole. Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan or mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Recipe Tips
- Make it Creamier: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for an extra creamy sauce.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for added nutrition.
- Use Leftovers: This recipe reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus as a side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground beef instead of chunks?
Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute. Brown it in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker, and reduce the cooking time slightly.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Can I use another type of meat?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs or pork shoulder would work well in this recipe.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can make this on the stovetop. Simmer the beef and seasonings in a Dutch oven over low heat for 2-3 hours until tender.
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Beef Pasta is a hearty and satisfying dish on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It’s also perfect for potlucks or family gatherings where comfort food is always a hit!
Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Skillet (optional, for browning beef)
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast or stew meat cut into chunks
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cups uncooked pasta of your choice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese or shredded mozzarella
- 2 tablespoons olive oil optional, for browning beef
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the Beef: If desired, brown the beef chunks in a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes per side. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker: Add the beef chunks to the slow cooker. Sprinkle with garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef evenly.
- Add Broth and Tomato Paste: Pour in the beef broth and stir in the tomato paste. This creates the flavorful base for the sauce.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Cook the Pasta: About 20 minutes before the beef is done, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Pasta and Beef: Once the beef is tender, shred it with a fork directly in the slow cooker or leave the chunks whole. Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan or mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
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