This Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. With tender beef, a rich and creamy garlic-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is both easy and satisfying. Just set it in your slow cooker and let the flavors develop while you go about your day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking – The slow cooker does all the work for you.
- Rich & Creamy – The combination of beef, garlic, and a creamy sauce is irresistible.
- Family-Friendly – A hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Customizable – You can easily add vegetables or adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker – Add the beef stew meat, diced onion, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
- Mix the Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, heavy cream, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour it over the beef and stir to combine.
- Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 4-5 hours) until the beef is tender.
- Cook the Pasta – About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Everything – Stir the cooked pasta into the slow cooker along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- Finish & Serve – Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes on low, then garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (on low) or 4-5 hours (on high)
- Total Time: 6.5 to 8.5 hours
Variations
- Add Veggies – Stir in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Variations – Swap Parmesan for mozzarella, Asiago, or cheddar.
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream soup alternative.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of beef broth or cream. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Chuck roast, sirloin, or even ground beef will work. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
What pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells hold the sauce well.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes! Sear the beef, add the sauce, and let it simmer until tender. Then stir in the cooked pasta and cheese.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.
Can I add wine to enhance the flavor?
Yes! A splash of red or white wine will add depth to the sauce.
What can I serve with this dish?
A fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well.
Can I use a different soup base?
Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can be substituted for a slightly different flavor.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is an easy, delicious, and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish will become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a stress-free, homemade dinner!
Print
Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) / 4-5 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6.5 to 8.5 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is a rich, hearty, and effortless comfort food dish. With tender beef, a creamy garlic-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this slow-cooked meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or preferred shape)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker – Add beef stew meat, diced onion, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
- Mix the Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, heavy cream, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour over the beef and stir.
- Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 4-5 hours) until the beef is tender.
- Cook the Pasta – About 30 minutes before serving, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Everything – Stir the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese into the slow cooker. Mix well.
- Finish & Serve – Let cook for another 10-15 minutes on low, then garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Best Beef Cuts: Chuck roast, sirloin, or even ground beef can be used—adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Prevent Mushy Pasta: Cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to maintain texture.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Wine for Depth: A splash of red or white wine can enhance the sauce’s richness and add a gourmet touch.
- Vegetable Additions: Stir in mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan for mozzarella, Asiago, or cheddar for a different cheesy twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of beef broth or cream, or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
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