Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta. Tender, slow-cooked beef, a rich garlic-infused creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta combine to create a hearty meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Serve it alongside garlic bread and a crisp salad for a meal the whole family will love.

What Is Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta?

This dish is a one-pot wonder combining slow-cooked, fall-apart-tender beef with a creamy, garlicky sauce and pasta. The slow cooker ensures maximum flavor with minimal effort, while the addition of Parmesan and cream cheese gives the sauce its decadent texture. It’s a recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does most of the work, freeing up your time.
• Rich and Creamy: A velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
• Customizable: Use your favorite pasta shapes and adjust seasonings to your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners or as a comforting dish to serve guests.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 3 cups (720ml) beef broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rotini)
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the beef pieces until browned on all sides to lock in flavor.
3. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Adding the Flavor

4. Add minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and beef broth to the slow cooker.
5. Stir to combine, ensuring the beef is well-coated.

Slow Cooking

6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and flavorful.

Making the Sauce

7. Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
8. Let the mixture cook for an additional 15 minutes to thicken.

Preparing the Pasta

9. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
10. Add the pasta to the slow cooker, tossing to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.

Final Touches

11. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
12. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color (optional).

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta with:

• Garlic Bread: The perfect side for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Crisp Salad: A light, fresh side dish to balance the richness.
• Steamed Vegetables: Add a touch of green with broccoli or asparagus.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of beef broth if needed to thin the sauce.

Freezing Instructions

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten sensitivities.
• Low-Carb: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach or mushrooms during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use any tender cut of beef, such as sirloin or even ground beef for a quicker option.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the point of adding pasta, refrigerate, and reheat when ready to serve. Cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Penne, rotini, or any short pasta shape works well as they hold the sauce beautifully.

This Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. With tender beef, a luxurious garlic cream sauce, and pasta cooked to perfection, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and let us know how it turns out!

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