Creamy Garlic Butter Beef has a way of making even the most ordinary weeknight feel special. I remember the first time I tried making a garlic butter beef pasta creamy dish; it was a revelation! The aroma of sizzling beef, fragrant garlic, and rich butter filled my kitchen, promising something truly decadent. This recipe, a hearty blend of tender beef, savory sausage, and a luscious, cheesy garlic butter sauce coating perfectly cooked penne, is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal that silences the table with happy sighs. Let’s get cooking this incredible Garlic Butter Beef Pasta Creamy!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef
This dish is a weeknight winner for so many reasons. Get ready to fall in love with these benefits:
- It’s incredibly rich and satisfying, perfect for a hearty meal.
- The combination of garlic, butter, and cream creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- It’s a fantastic way to use ground beef and sausage for maximum flavor.
- This is truly Easy Creamy Garlic Butter Beef – minimal fuss, maximum reward.
- The creamy sauce coats every piece of pasta beautifully.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple.
- You can whip up this Easy Creamy Garlic Butter Beef in under an hour.
- It’s a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Ingredients
Gathering the right Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Ingredients is key to unlocking this dish’s incredible flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound penne pasta – cooked al dente, with about 1 cup of pasta water reserved for later.
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed – I like using a mix of mild and spicy for a little kick.
- 1 pound ground beef – lean is good, but a little fat means more flavor.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped – this adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced – don’t be shy with the garlic; it’s the star!
- 1/2 cup butter – this forms the base of our luscious sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream – the magic ingredient for that signature creamy texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for that gooey, cheesy factor.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty finish.
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach – it wilts down beautifully and adds a touch of green.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – season generously!
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat – if you like a little spice.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Beef
Let’s get this delicious meal on the table! Making this Creamy Garlic Butter Beef is surprisingly straightforward, even with all that amazing flavor.
- Step 1: Start by cooking your penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Before draining, make sure to scoop out and reserve about a cup of that starchy pasta water – it’s liquid gold for getting your sauce just right!
- Step 2: While the pasta is bubbling away, grab a large skillet or Dutch oven. Add your Italian sausage and cook over medium-high heat, breaking it up with your spoon as it browns. Once it’s nicely cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving those flavorful drippings behind in the pan.
- Step 3: Now, add the ground beef to the same skillet. Cook it until it’s beautifully browned, breaking it up as you go. Drain off any excess grease so your sauce isn’t too oily.
- Step 4: Toss in the chopped yellow onion and cook until it starts to soften and become a little translucent, usually about 5 minutes. This is when the aromatics really start to build!
- Step 5: Stir in your minced garlic and cook for just about 1 minute more until you can really smell that delicious garlicky fragrance. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Step 6: Add the butter to the skillet. Let it melt and swirl it around to coat the beef and onions, creating a lovely base for our sauce.
- Step 7: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. Keep stirring until they’re completely melted and you have a smooth, luxurious, creamy sauce. Season it with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Step 8: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the drained penne pasta and the fresh baby spinach.
- Step 9: Gently toss everything together until the spinach wilts into the sauce and the pasta is thoroughly coated in that dreamy, creamy garlic butter sauce. If it seems a little too thick, just add a splash of that reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. This is how to master making Creamy Garlic Butter Beef!
- Step 10: Serve this amazing Creamy Garlic Butter Beef immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan and those optional red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Butter Beef
Want to elevate your Creamy Garlic Butter Beef game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. Follow these simple tips for a truly exceptional dish:
- Don’t overcook the pasta! It will finish cooking in the sauce, so aim for slightly under al dente.
- Sear the meats properly. Browning the sausage and ground beef well builds a deep flavor base for the entire dish.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as you go. The sauce can handle a good amount of salt and pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice warmth.
- Use fresh garlic! Garlic powder just won’t give you that same pungent, aromatic kick that fresh cloves provide.
What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Beef?
The real secret to that irresistible, Restaurant Style Creamy Garlic Butter Beef is the panade – a mixture of milk and breadcrumbs (or in this case, the starchy pasta water). It helps bind the sauce and makes it wonderfully smooth and rich. For more tips on achieving the perfect sauce consistency, you can check out this guide on making delicious meals.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Butter Beef ahead of time?
You can certainly prep the components ahead of time! Brown the meats and chop your veggies the day before. Store them separately in the fridge. Then, when you’re ready to cook, just whip up the sauce and combine everything. It makes assembly a breeze! If you’re looking for other make-ahead meal ideas, consider these latest recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Garlic Butter Beef?
A common pitfall is a sauce that’s too thin or too thick. If it’s too thin, simmer it a bit longer. If it’s too thick, the reserved pasta water is your best friend! Also, be careful not to overcook the spinach; it wilts quickly in the hot sauce. For more tips on cooking vegetables, you might find this article on steaming broccoli helpful.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Beef
This decadent dish is perfect for so many occasions, and I love finding new ways to enjoy it. These Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Dinner Ideas are sure to impress!
- Serve this rich pasta dish as a standalone main course. It’s hearty enough on its own!
- Pair it with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
- Add a side of crusty garlic bread for dipping into any extra creamy sauce left on the plate.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Garlic Butter Beef
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in each generous serving of this delicious Creamy Garlic Butter Beef. These numbers help you understand the nutritional profile of this rich and satisfying meal.
- Calories: 750
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use for your Garlic Butter Beef with Heavy Cream.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Garlic Butter Beef
Leftovers of this amazing Creamy Garlic Butter Beef are a true gift! Once it has cooled down a bit, transfer any remaining pasta into airtight containers. For the best quality, I find it keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep this delicious Beef in Garlic Butter Cream Sauce even longer, it also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is simple. For refrigerated portions, you can gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if it seems a little thick. Alternatively, microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through. For frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using either method. This makes enjoying this comfort food a breeze! For more comforting dishes, check out this creamy sausage soup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Butter Beef
What makes this Creamy Garlic Butter Beef so special?
My recipe combines the richness of Italian sausage and ground beef with a luxurious garlic butter cream sauce, tossed with penne pasta and fresh spinach. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that feels truly indulgent, making it a standout dish.
Can I use different types of beef or pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground beef and penne, feel free to experiment. Lean ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option. For pasta, rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine work wonderfully. The key is a shape that holds the delicious sauce well. If you’re looking for other pasta dishes, you might enjoy this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake.
How do I make the sauce less heavy if I want Garlic Butter Beef with Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a slightly lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. Just be mindful that using less fat might slightly alter the richness and thickness, but it will still be incredibly flavorful! For a different creamy pasta experience, try this creamy tuscan sausage gnocchi.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this Creamy Garlic Butter Beef?
This dish is quite rich, so I love pairing it with something fresh and light. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some steamed green beans would be perfect. Crusty bread is also a must for soaking up that incredible sauce! You might also like these corn salad.
Variations of Creamy Garlic Butter Beef You Can Try
This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also a wonderful base for all sorts of delicious twists! I love experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to keep things exciting.
- Add Mushrooms: For a wonderfully earthy and savory kick, add sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the onions. Sauté them until they release their moisture and start to brown. This creates a delicious Garlic Butter Beef and Mushroom Creamy variation that’s incredibly satisfying.
- Spice it Up: If you love a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño along with the onions and garlic. It adds a wonderful warmth without overpowering the creamy garlic butter flavor.
- Go Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast or dairy-free shredded cheese alternatives. It’s a bit different but still wonderfully rich.
- Swap the Protein: While beef is the star, you could try this sauce with chicken thighs or even shrimp. Cook them separately and add them in at the end to prevent overcooking. For a shrimp option, check out this creamy spinach mushroom shrimp recipe.
Creamy Garlic Butter Beef: 1 Hour Comfort Meal
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach is a rich, cheesy, and flavorful comfort food favorite. It features seared beef sausage, seasoned ground beef, a creamy garlic butter sauce, and tender baby spinach, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This dish is satisfying enough for a dinner party yet quick enough for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 4–6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, brown the Italian sausage in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- Add the ground beef to the same skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up. Drain off excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt, coating the beef and onions.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked penne pasta and the fresh spinach.
- Toss everything together until the spinach wilts and the pasta is well coated in the creamy garlic butter sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- Other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli can be used.
- Kale or arugula can be substituted for spinach.
- Different cheeses like provolone or fontina can be used instead of mozzarella.
- For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 750
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg









