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Garlic Beef Pasta: A Slow-Cooked Comfort Feast
Let's create a dish that's both hearty and effortless: Garlic Beef Pasta. This slow cooker recipe delivers tender, flavorful beef, infused with garlic and Italian herbs, tossed with pasta and melted cheese. It's the perfect comfort meal for any occasion. I'm excited to share this satisfying recipe with you.
Ingredient Essentials
- Beef Chuck Roast or Stew Meat:
- Beef chuck roast or stew meat provides a tender and flavorful base.
- Garlic:
- Minced garlic adds a rich, savory flavor.
- Italian Seasoning, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper:
- These spices season the beef.
- Beef Broth:
- Beef broth creates a flavorful cooking liquid.
- Tomato Paste:
- Tomato paste adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- Pasta (Your Choice):
- Pasta absorbs the flavorful sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese or Mozzarella Cheese:
- Cheese adds a creamy, melty finish.
- Fresh Parsley (Optional):
- Fresh parsley adds a vibrant garnish.
- Olive Oil (Optional):
- Olive oil is used for searing the beef.
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Crafting Your Garlic Beef Pasta
- Beef Preparation (Optional Searing):
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear beef chunks for 3 minutes per side until browned.
- Slow Cooker Preparation:
- Transfer beef to the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle with garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to coat the beef.
- Pour in beef broth and tomato paste.
- Stir to combine.
- Slow Cooking:
- Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until beef is tender.
- Beef Shredding and Pasta Addition:
- Shred beef with two forks or leave in chunks.
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Drain pasta and add to the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine.
- Cheese Addition:
- Sprinkle Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the pasta.
- Stir until cheese is melted and creamy.
- Garnishing and Serving:
- Garnish with fresh parsley (optional).
- Serve warm.
You Must Know
- This recipe delivers tender, flavorful beef and creamy, cheesy pasta.
- Searing the beef adds extra flavor, but it's optional.
- The slow cooker does all the work, making this a hands-off meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator.
I love the tender, garlicky beef and the creamy, cheesy pasta. The slow cooker makes this dish incredibly easy and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Garlic Beef Pasta as a main dish for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread.
Flavorful Variations
Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Stir in heavy cream or ricotta for a richer sauce. Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
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Chef's Helpful Tips
- Sear the beef for added flavor.
- Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
- Adjust spices and seasonings to your preference.
- Add a splash of pasta water or beef broth if the sauce is too thick.
- Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added freshness.
This Garlic Beef Pasta is a delicious and versatile dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this comforting meal as much as I do.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different cut of beef?
- Yes, brisket or short ribs can be used.
- → Can I use homemade beef broth?
- Yes, homemade beef broth enhances the flavor.
- → Can I add vegetables?
- Yes, carrots, celery, or mushrooms can be added.
- → Can I skip searing the beef?
- Yes, but searing adds a rich depth of flavor.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
- Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well.