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)
Preparation
Prepare the Beef:
Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. Place it in the slow cooker.
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.
Cook the Beef:
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
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.
Cook the Pasta:
While the beef is cooking, prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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.
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