Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta

A warm bowl of Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta can melt away the stress of a hectic day. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s pure comfort food that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. Perfect for family dinners or quiet evenings at home, it brings people together over a shared love for hearty, delicious food. Every bite feels like a hug, making it ideal for anyone looking for a satisfying supper.

At the heart of this recipe are robust flavors and simple ingredients that transform into something extraordinary. Picture tender beef stew meat, perfectly cooked and paired with sautéed onion and fragrant garlic. The recipe’s creamy sauce combines a can of cream of mushroom soup with beef broth and heavy cream, enhanced by aromatic herbs like basil and oregano. The addition of grated Parmesan cheese gives the dish that final touch of richness, while the pasta (your choice of penne or any favorite shape) holds onto all those savory flavors beautifully.

Making this dish is a breeze. First, you’ll prepare the beef by placing it in the slow cooker, along with diced onion and minced garlic. Then, whip up a quick sauce by mixing together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and heavy cream, along with the herbs. Pour it over the beef, cover, and let it cook on low for 6 to 8 hours until everything is tender and flavorful. When you’re about half an hour away from serving, you’ll cook the pasta separately, mix it in with the beef, and stir in cheese for that creamy finish. Just let it meld for a few more minutes, and your wonderful meal is ready to be served!

This recipe shines on those chilly nights when you crave something warm and filling or during potlucks where you’re ready to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone—especially home cooks and seniors—can appreciate.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta

• Quick: Set it and forget it with the slow cooker; this meal practically makes itself.
• Simple Ingredients: With common pantry staples, you won’t need to race to the store.
• Comfort Food: Rich and creamy, it’s the perfect dish for cozy nights in.
• Versatile: Customize the pasta shape or add in your favorite vegetables.
• Flavorful: Packed with a combination of umami-rich ingredients that make every bite memorable.

Beef Tips

When selecting beef stew meat, look for cuts that are well-marbled. This means they have small streaks of fat running through them, which adds flavor and tenderness during cooking. Chuck roast is a popular choice as it breaks down nicely in the slow cooker. If possible, ask your butcher for a fresh cut, as this can significantly enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile.

Options for Substitutions

• Use chicken thighs instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Substitute low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels for dietary preferences.
• Replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a different flavor and lower fat.
• Try gluten-free pasta for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Swap the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or broccoli soup for alternative flavors.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried for a fresher taste.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

Overcooking the beef is a common pitfall. While the beauty of the slow cooker is precisely its ability to tenderize meat, it’s essential not to leave it cooking for too long. Aim for the 6 to 8-hour range on low heat; this ensures maximum flavor while keeping the meat juicy.

Seasoning can be tricky as well. Make sure to taste before serving and don’t be afraid to adjust salt and pepper according to your preference. The combination of the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth already contains seasonings that can vary in strength, so balancing the final flavor is crucial.

Timing the pasta is another hurdle. If you add the pasta too early, it may become mushy by the time the beef is ready. Adhering strictly to the suggested cooking time will ensure perfect al dente pasta that soaks up the rich sauce without losing its bite.

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta?

This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. For something heartier, consider serving garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. Steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, add a nice pop of color and a healthy element to the meal.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

For freezing, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container. It should maintain its quality for up to 3 months.

When ready to enjoy, reheat your pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring back its creaminess. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes (not including cooling time)
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: Approximately 6 servings

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 2,000 – 2,200
• Protein: 150 – 170g
• Fat: 120 – 135g
• Carbohydrates: 180 – 200g

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 small onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz pasta (penne or any favorite shape)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

In the slow cooker, combine the beef stew meat, diced onion, and minced garlic. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, heavy cream, dried basil, and dried oregano. Once well combined, pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for about 6 to 8 hours, until the beef is nice and tender, and the flavors have melded beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Around 30 minutes before the beef is done, cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked to al dente, drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Stir the cooked pasta into the slow cooker with the beef. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to your taste. Mix well to combine all the flavors, ensuring the pasta absorbs that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Let Flavors Meld

Let the dish cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up more flavor, creating a luscious dish that you will love.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. It’s time to enjoy your Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta!

In summary, this Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is an inviting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. The comforting flavors, simple steps, and flexibility in ingredients make it a go-to recipe for home cooks of all levels. I encourage you to try this wonderful dish and share your experience or explore more similar posts on the blog. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce a day in advance. Store separately in the fridge, combine when ready to cook, and proceed with the instructions.

How do I adjust the recipe for different diets?

You can easily modify the recipe by substituting beef with chicken or adding more vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Is this pasta recipe suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Store it in a freezer-safe container and it can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

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