This Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for any night of the week. The slow-cooked beef stew meat becomes incredibly tender, infused with the rich flavors of garlic, herbs, and creamy sauce, and is perfectly paired with your favorite pasta. Here’s how to make this delicious meal:
Ingredients
- 1 pound of beef stew meat: Cut into bite-sized pieces for tender, flavorful beef.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a rich, garlicky aroma.
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz): Provides a creamy base with earthy mushroom undertones.
- 1 cup of beef broth: Enhances the beefy flavor and ensures the meat stays tender.
- 1 cup of heavy cream: Adds richness and a velvety texture to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil: Lends a hint of sweet, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano: Complements the basil with a slightly peppery, herbal note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- 8 ounces of pasta: Penne or your favorite shape; the pasta will soak up the delicious sauce.
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy element that enhances the overall flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef and Onion:
- Sear the Beef (Optional):
- For added flavor, you can sear the beef stew meat in a hot skillet with a bit of oil until browned on all sides before adding it to the slow cooker. This step is optional but recommended.
- Add to Slow Cooker:
- Place the bite-sized beef stew meat and diced onion into the slow cooker.
2. Build the Flavor Base:
- Add Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to the slow cooker, ensuring it’s evenly distributed among the beef and onions.
- Add Cream of Mushroom Soup and Broth:
- Pour in the can of cream of mushroom soup and the beef broth. Stir to combine, making sure the beef is well-coated.
- Season and Cook:
- Sprinkle the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir again to ensure the spices are evenly incorporated.
3. Slow Cook:
- Set the Slow Cooker:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The beef should be tender and the flavors well melded.
4. Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the Pasta:
- About 20-30 minutes before the beef is done, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Finish the Sauce:
- Add Heavy Cream:
- Once the beef is tender, stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the cream to warm and blend with the sauce.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Mix Pasta with Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and gently stir to coat the pasta in the creamy garlic beef sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish:
- If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
- Serve:
- Serve the creamy garlic beef pasta hot, with additional Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta
- Choose the Right Beef: Opt for a well-marbled stew meat for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Don’t Skip the Searing: If you have the time, searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Adjust Creaminess: For an even richer sauce, you can add a little more heavy cream or Parmesan cheese.
- Pasta Shape: Penne, rigatoni, or even egg noodles work well, as they hold the sauce nicely.
Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender beef with a rich, creamy sauce that’s infused with garlic and herbs. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread, and you’ve got a meal that will satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy!
