Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta – A Must-Try Slow Cooker Recipe

Introduction

Nothing beats the comfort of a rich, hearty, and flavorful pasta dish, especially when it’s effortlessly made in a slow cooker. This Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta recipe brings together tender, slow-cooked beef infused with aromatic garlic, simmered in a flavorful sauce, and combined with perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. If you’re looking for an easy, hands-off meal that the whole family will love, this slow cooker pasta recipe is a must-try!

This in-depth guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Garlic Beef Pasta in a slow cooker. From ingredient selection to cooking techniques, storage tips, and variations, you’ll learn how to elevate this dish to restaurant-quality status.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Beef Pasta Recipe

• Slow Cooker Convenience: Minimal prep and hands-free cooking.
• Rich & Flavorful: Slow cooking enhances the depth of flavors.
• Tender, Juicy Beef: Falls apart effortlessly after hours of cooking.
• Garlic Lovers’ Dream: A bold, aromatic garlic-infused sauce.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully.
• Customizable: Works well with different pasta shapes and proteins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast (or stewing beef, cut into chunks)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional, for deeper flavor)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for a creamy texture)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Before adding your beef to the slow cooker, sear it for extra flavor. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and brown the beef chunks on all sides. This locks in the juices and enhances the dish’s depth.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Tomato Sauce

In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and beef broth. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Transfer to the Slow Cooker

Pour the prepared sauce over the seared beef in the slow cooker. Add red wine if using. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours until the beef is fork-tender.

Step 4: Shred the Beef

Once cooked, remove the beef chunks and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the sauce and stir well.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the beef is finishing in the sauce, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Stir in heavy cream for a creamy texture, if desired. Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker, tossing until evenly coated in the sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

this PIN FOR LATER

Best Pasta Choices for This Dish

Not all pasta shapes work the same with slow-cooked beef. Here are the best options:

• Penne: Holds sauce well and stays firm.
• Rigatoni: Large tubes perfect for hearty sauces.
• Fettuccine: Works well for a creamy version.
• Tagliatelle: A great alternative for a gourmet touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or asparagus adds nutrition.

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigeration:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• Store sauce and pasta separately for best results.
• Freeze sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, adding a splash of beef broth if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Tips for Making the Best Garlic Beef Pasta

1. Use Chuck Roast: This cut becomes ultra-tender in a slow cooker.
2. Sear for Flavor: Browning the beef before slow cooking enhances richness.
3. Layer the Garlic: Add fresh garlic at the beginning and a bit towards the end for the best taste.
4. Don’t Overcook Pasta: Always cook pasta separately and add it at the end.
5. Customize Heat: Adjust red pepper flakes for spice level.

Health Benefits of Garlic Beef Pasta

• Rich in Protein: Beef provides essential amino acids for muscle growth.
• Packed with Antioxidants: Garlic and tomatoes boost immunity.
• Healthy Carbs: Whole wheat pasta offers fiber and energy.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground beef instead of chuck roast?

Yes, but slow-cooked shredded beef offers a richer texture and flavor.

2. What’s the best wine to use in this recipe?

A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot enhances the depth.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Omit the heavy cream and Parmesan or use dairy-free alternatives.

4. What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

You can cook it in a Dutch oven at low heat for 3-4 hours.

5. Can I add veggies?

Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.

6. How do I thicken the sauce?

Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 15 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

7. Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, but freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for the best texture.

8. Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Fresh garlic gives better flavor, but pre-minced works in a pinch.

9. What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

Try it as a pasta bake by topping with cheese and baking at 375°F for 15 minutes.

10. How can I make it spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.

Conclusion

This Delicious Garlic Beef Pasta is the ultimate slow cooker comfort meal, delivering tender beef, a rich garlic-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in every bite. With its simple ingredients, effortless cooking method, and irresistible flavor, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a cozy gathering, this dish will impress every time!

Print