Imagine coming home to a warm, savory aroma wafting from your kitchen, knowing dinner is ready and waiting. Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Packed with tender beef, a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is as delicious as it is effortless.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless Cooking: Let your slow cooker handle the hard work.
Rich and Creamy Flavor: Packed with bold garlic and a creamy sauce that coats every bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding the whole family or hosting dinner guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Beef:
1 ½ lbs beef chuck roast or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
For the Pasta:
12 oz penne, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta
Optional Garnishes:
Chopped parsley
Additional Parmesan cheese
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the beef with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Sear the beef in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. This step adds depth of flavor but can be skipped if short on time.
Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker.
Add minced garlic, beef broth, and Italian seasoning.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
Add the cornstarch slurry and mix well.
Cover and continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Stir the cooked pasta into the creamy beef sauce in the slow cooker.
Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of red wine like Merlot or a sparkling water with lemon.
Why This Recipe Works
Slow cooking allows the beef to become incredibly tender while absorbing the rich flavors of the garlic-infused cream sauce. The addition of Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning creates a luxurious, well-balanced dish that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare. Combining the creamy sauce with al dente pasta makes every bite comforting and satisfying.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?A: Yes! Chuck roast, sirloin, or even ground beef works well in this recipe.
Q: How do I store leftovers?A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?A: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?A: Absolutely! Add spinach, mushrooms, or peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream?A: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut milk.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is a rich, comforting dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. With its tender beef, creamy garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy the deliciousness of home-cooked comfort food with the convenience of a slow cooker!
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