If you’re looking for a meal that is both comforting and easy to make, this Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta is a must-try! With tender beef, a savory garlic-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish brings together rich flavors in the most effortless way possible. The slow cooker does all the hard work, making this a fantastic recipe for busy days or when you simply want a hassle-free dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta is the perfect balance of hearty beef, aromatic garlic, and tender pasta. The beauty of this recipe lies in how simple it is to prepare. With the slow cooker doing the hard work, all you need to do is throw in the ingredients, set it, and forget it. The beef becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in a garlic and tomato sauce, while the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors. It’s a cozy, comforting meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

1 lb beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
Salt and pepper, to taste
12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Brown the beef on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. This step helps to lock in the flavors, but the beef will continue to cook in the slow cooker.
Slow Cook the Beef: Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, beef broth, basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Cook the Pasta: About 15 minutes before the end of cooking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Combine the Beef and Pasta: Once the beef is tender, stir in the cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Mix well, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavorful sauce. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley or basil, and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4-6 servings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours (on low) or 3-4 hours (on high)
Total Time: 6-7 hours (on low) or 3-4 hours (on high)

Variations

Different Pasta: Feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or farfalle.
Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the slow cooker for extra nutrition and flavor.
Ground Beef Version: If you prefer, you can substitute the beef stew meat with ground beef. Brown it in the skillet before adding to the slow cooker.
Cheesy Version: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker in the last 10 minutes of cooking for a cheesy, melty version.
Spicy Kick: For extra heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the pasta has absorbed too much sauce, add a little more beef broth or water to loosen it up before reheating.

This recipe can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef like chuck roast or even ground beef. Just ensure the beef is tender and able to cook well in the slow cooker.

Can I make this dish without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook this dish in a large pot on the stove. Brown the beef, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.

Can I add more garlic?

Absolutely! If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more minced garlic to the slow cooker for an extra burst of flavor.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works great in this recipe. Just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the slow cooker.

Can I make this a vegetarian dish?

Yes, you can omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, adding extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.

Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe is not very spicy, but if you prefer heat, you can add more crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to adjust the spice level.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to serve a larger group. Just make sure to use a larger slow cooker and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Just chop about 4-5 medium tomatoes and add them to the slow cooker. You may need to adjust the amount of beef broth to get the right consistency.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also reheats well, so it’s perfect for meal prep.

How do I know when the beef is tender?

The beef is done when it is easy to shred with a fork. It should be fork-tender and fully cooked through.

Conclusion

Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta is a perfect slow cooker recipe that’s packed with rich, savory flavors. The tender beef, aromatic garlic, and juicy tomatoes blend together into a mouthwatering sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta. It’s an easy, comforting meal that you can set and forget, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Try this recipe for a satisfying meal your whole family will love!