If you are craving a hearty and comforting meal that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures, this Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender beef chuck slow-cooked in a luscious tomato and garlic sauce gets tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe is fantastic because it melds the deep, savory notes of garlic and beef with the bright freshness of herbs and Parmesan, making it a true crowd-pleaser for any dinner occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this dish. Each component plays an essential role, from the tender beef that provides richness, to the fresh garlic and herbs that bring vibrant flavor and color.
- 1.5 lbs beef chuck: Choose a cut with good marbling for tenderness and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the beef and sautéing aromatics, adds depth to the dish.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and a soft texture to balance the acidity of tomatoes.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star of this Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe, delivering bold, savory brightness.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: Provides a rich, hearty tomato base for the sauce.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Adds smoothness and enhances that tomatoey goodness.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Gives a subtle herbal fragrance that melds perfectly with the beef.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Works alongside basil for earthy, aromatic notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Necessary to bring all flavors into harmony.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and balances the sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and complexity in the sauce.
- 1 cup beef broth: Helps tenderize the meat and enriches the sauce.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti): Choose your favorite shape to soak up the sauce best.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: A final garnish adding salty, nutty richness.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: For a burst of color and fresh flavor at the end.
How to Make Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the bite-sized beef chuck pieces, giving them space to sear instead of steam. Brown them evenly on all sides; this step locks in juices and gives your dish a beautiful depth of flavor. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker to begin developing those melt-in-your-mouth textures.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Using the same skillet, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and release their inviting aromas. This simple step unlocks the garlic’s signature punch and builds complexity before these fragrant ingredients join the beef in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Now add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if desired, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all the elements. This mixture will become the luscious sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly, making this Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe so memorable.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is incredibly tender and all the flavors have blended beautifully. This leisurely cooking process is why the beef becomes so soft and the sauce so rich—patience definitely pays off here!
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
About 20 minutes before you’re ready to serve, bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Al dente pasta provides the perfect bite, holding up well when mixed with the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Stir the cooked pasta into the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is generously coated with the savory beef sauce. Let the dish sit for about 5 minutes so the pasta can soak up those rich flavors. This final melding step is what elevates this Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe from good to absolutely irresistible.
Step 7: Serve with Cheese and Parsley
Dish out warm plates of this comforting pasta, topping each serving with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. These finishing touches add a pop of brightness and a wonderful tangy contrast to the hearty sauce, making every bite simply delightful.
How to Serve Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishes, freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a must; it melts slightly from the heat of the pasta, providing a salty, nutty finish. A scattering of fresh parsley not only adds vibrant color but also a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the beef sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also fantastic for mopping up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve this pasta family-style in a large bowl so everyone can help themselves. For a dinner party, consider plating individually with a twirl of pasta topped with a sprig of parsley and a light dusting of Parmesan. Adding roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms on the side can bring extra color and texture to the presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making next-day servings even more flavorful and enjoyable.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by placing cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. This meal freezes well for up to 2 months. Be sure to label and date your containers to keep track.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling and tenderness, you can substitute with beef brisket or short ribs for similar results. Just keep in mind, tougher cuts need slow cooking to become tender.
Is it necessary to use a slow cooker for this Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe?
While the slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the beef to become super tender, you can also cook it on the stove with a heavy pot on low heat for a longer time. The slow cooker just makes it easier and hands-off.
Can I substitute fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
You can use fresh tomatoes if you have them on hand, but canned crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce deliver a consistent texture and richer flavor year-round. If using fresh, you may need to cook the sauce longer to break them down properly.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work wonderfully because they hold the sauce well. Feel free to use your favorite pasta, but shapes with ridges or tubes capture the sauce nicely.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a subtle heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish. If you prefer mild food, you can easily omit them.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe is truly a fantastic way to bring people together over a plate of soulful, delicious food. Its combination of tender beef, garlicky tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta hits all the right notes for comfort and satisfaction. I encourage you to give this recipe a try soon — it might just become your new favorite go-to for cozy dinners at home!
Print
Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours (slow cooker low) or 3 to 4 hours (slow cooker high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes (low) or 3 hours 20 minutes to 4 hours 20 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This delicious Garlic Beef Pasta features tender, slow-cooked beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic and herbs, served over perfectly cooked pasta and topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this recipe combines hearty flavors with tender textures for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Beef and Sauce
- 1.5 lbs beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
Pasta and Garnish
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef pieces and sear until browned on all sides. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then transfer them to the slow cooker with the beef.
- Add sauce ingredients: To the slow cooker, add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if using, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Slow cook the beef: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be tender and the flavors well melded.
- Cook the pasta: About 20 minutes before serving, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Stir the cooked pasta into the slow cooker, mixing thoroughly with the sauce. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb.
- Serve: Serve the pasta warm, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Notes
- For extra richness, you can add a splash of red wine to the sauce before slow cooking.
- Use beef chuck for the best flavor and tenderness after slow cooking.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your desired spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- If you prefer thicker sauce, remove the lid from the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking to reduce liquid.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
