There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a slow-cooked meal that’s both rich and creamy. Our Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta is the answer to any weekday blues, providing a soul-warming dish that’s simple to prepare and absolutely delightful to eat. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or want to impress guests with minimal fuss, this recipe is your go-to option.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipments
- Slow cooker
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
How to Make Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by dicing your onion and mincing the garlic cloves. Cut your beef into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are of even size for consistent cooking. Measure out the beef broth, heavy cream, and pasta to have everything ready to go.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides. This step adds depth and a rich flavor to your pasta dish, as searing locks in the juices of each beef cube, making every bite flavorful and tender.
Step 3: Combine in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the seared beef, diced onions, minced garlic, beef broth, and Italian seasoning to the slow cooker. Stir to ensure the spices and ingredients are well mixed. Cover and allow the slow cooker to do its magic on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it al dente according to the package instructions. Drain well and prepare it for the next delicious step.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the beef is adequately tender, pour in the heavy cream and add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure that the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce, taking care not to break the tender beef pieces. Allow it to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.
How to Serve Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta
Once everything is perfectly cooked, serve the Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or parmesan cheese if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or crusty bread to soak up the mouthwatering sauce.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To make this dish even more satisfying, try incorporating some veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, which can be added in the final hour of cooking. Substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative for a lighter version.
Boost Your Meal: High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta
For those looking to increase their protein intake, consider using quinoa pasta and adding a cup of chickpeas to the slow cooker. This not only boosts protein but also adds a delightful texture and flavor to the dish.
Indulge Guilt-Free: Low-Carb Creamy Beef Pasta Delight
Transform this recipe into a low-carb masterpiece by swapping the regular pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. Your slow cooker beef pasta will be just as creamy and delicious but friendlier to your low-carb lifestyle.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave for a few minutes until thoroughly warmed. This recipe is also freezer-friendly for up to a month.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, chicken can be a tasty alternative and will cook more quickly.
How do I thicken the sauce if needed? You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and add it to the slow cooker.
Can I add vegetables directly at the start of cooking? It’s better to add them in the last few hours to prevent them from becoming too soft.
What is the best type of pasta for this recipe? Use a sturdy pasta like penne or rigatoni to maintain texture during cooking.
Final Thoughts on This Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta is your ticket to effortless elegance in the kitchen. Invite your family and friends, share this recipe, and leave a comment about your cooking experience. You’re sure to win hearts with this delightful dish!
Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef stew meat
- pasta
- beef broth
- heavy cream
- onion
- garlic
- Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Start by dicing your onion and mincing the garlic cloves. Cut your beef into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are of even size for consistent cooking. Measure out the beef broth, heavy cream, and pasta to have everything ready to go.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides. This step adds depth and a rich flavor to your pasta dish, as searing locks in the juices of each beef cube, making every bite flavorful and tender.
- Transfer the seared beef, diced onions, minced garlic, beef broth, and Italian seasoning to the slow cooker. Stir to ensure the spices and ingredients are well mixed. Cover and allow the slow cooker to do its magic on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it al dente according to the package instructions. Drain well and prepare it for the next delicious step.
- Once the beef is adequately tender, pour in the heavy cream and add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure that the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce, taking care not to break the tender beef pieces. Allow it to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.