Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta – A Must-Try Slow Cooker Recipe

If you love the deep flavors of slow-cooked beef combined with the rich aroma of garlic and a creamy pasta dish, then this Garlic Beef Pasta recipe is a must-try. Perfect for busy days, this slow cooker meal allows you to enjoy a gourmet dish with minimal effort. The beef turns irresistibly tender, absorbing the savory garlic-infused sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, making this an easy hands-off meal.
• Rich, Deep Flavors: Slow cooking enhances the flavors, ensuring a robust, savory taste.
• Family-Friendly: A hearty, comforting dish that both kids and adults will love.
• Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can modify the dish to fit your dietary preferences and available ingredients.

Ingredients

• Beef chuck roast or stew meat
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Beef broth
• Tomato sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Cooked pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef dry with a paper towel and season with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Meat: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add them to the slow cooker.
4. Create the Sauce: Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
6. Shred the Beef: Using two forks, shred the beef directly in the slow cooker. Stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let it cook for an additional 15 minutes until warmed through.
8. Combine with Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and mix it into the beef mixture.
9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan before serving.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
• Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan.
• Different Proteins: Substitute beef with chicken thighs for a different take on this dish.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: Approximately 6.5-8.5 hours
• Servings: 6-8 portions

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Beef chuck roast works best, but you can also use brisket or short ribs for a similar result.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and refrigerate them, then start the slow cooker in the morning.

What pasta works best?

Penne, fettuccine, and rigatoni are great choices as they hold up well with the sauce.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in, letting it cook for a few more minutes.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes! Simmer everything in a large pot for about 2-3 hours until the beef is tender.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad complement this meal perfectly.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s mild and creamy, but you can adjust spices to suit your family’s taste.

Can I use ground beef instead?

Yes, but the texture will be different. Brown ground beef, then proceed with the sauce.

How do I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the cream, or add extra vegetables for a nutritious boost.

Can I cook the pasta in the slow cooker?

It’s best to cook pasta separately to avoid mushiness, but you can add it in the last 30 minutes if desired.

Conclusion

This Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The slow cooker makes it effortless, while the creamy garlic sauce adds an irresistible touch. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home!

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