Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta

Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is a delectable and comforting dish that showcases the rich flavors of tender beef simmered in a creamy, garlicky sauce. This meal combines hearty beef stew meat with a luscious, savory sauce, creating a satisfying dinner option that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare.

The essence of this dish lies in its slow cooking process, which allows the beef to become incredibly tender and infused with the flavors of garlic, onions, and aromatic herbs. As the beef cooks, it absorbs the rich broth and tomatoes, creating a deeply flavorful base that is both comforting and savory. The addition of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese transforms this base into a creamy, decadent sauce that perfectly coats the pasta.

The garlic flavor in the sauce is prominent yet balanced, providing a savory depth that complements the richness of the beef. The combination of dried basil, oregano, and thyme adds layers of complexity, enhancing the overall flavor profile and making each bite incredibly satisfying.

The pasta, cooked to al dente and stirred into the creamy beef mixture, absorbs the delicious sauce and melds beautifully with the tender beef. This creates a harmonious blend of textures, with the pasta providing a satisfying chew and the beef offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely family dinners, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify over several hours. The result is a comforting meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction.

Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a comforting, indulgent experience that brings together tender beef, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether enjoyed as a special occasion dish or a cozy weeknight dinner, it promises to deliver a rich, flavorful experience that’s sure to delight.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds beef stew meat (cubed)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   • Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. Place it in the slow cooker.
2. Add Vegetables and Seasonings:
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Mix well to combine.
3. Cook the Beef:
   • Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
   • About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well and let the sauce heat through.
5. Cook the Pasta:
   • While the beef is cooking, prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine Pasta and Beef:
   • Once the beef is tender and the sauce is creamy, stir in the cooked pasta until well coated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Tips:

• Beef Tenderness: Ensure the beef is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking and tenderness. Trim excess fat to avoid greasiness.
• Creaminess: For a richer sauce, you can substitute some of the heavy cream with sour cream or cream cheese.
• Pasta Variations: Use any pasta shape you prefer. For best results, add the pasta at the end to prevent it from becoming too soft.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Beef Pasta is a sumptuous and hearty dish that brings together tender beef, a creamy garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. The slow cooking process ensures the beef is deeply flavorful and tender, while the creamy sauce envelops the pasta in rich, savory goodness. This dish is perfect for a comforting family meal, offering both ease of preparation and a satisfying, indulgent taste. Whether served as a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the