Imagine the rich, slow-cooked flavor of classic Bolognese mingling with a luscious garlic butter cream sauce—all wrapped around tender strands of spaghetti. That’s exactly what you get in this Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Bolognese Sauce—a two-sauce masterpiece that blends bold and creamy into one unforgettable dinner. If you’re craving something hearty, luxurious, and bursting with flavor, this pasta dish deserves a spot on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average spaghetti night. It’s an elegant twist on two beloved classics: the bold, meaty Italian-style Bolognese sauce and a silky garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining dinner guests, or indulging in a cozy night at home, this dish delivers next-level comfort and restaurant-quality flavor in about 45 minutes.

It’s perfect for:

• Pasta lovers looking to upgrade a weeknight meal.

• Garlic fanatics—there’s plenty of it in both sauces.

• Home cooks who want a recipe that feels fancy but is simple to execute.

Ingredients Overview

Let’s break down what you’ll need for this flavor-packed recipe:

For the Bolognese Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef – Rich and savory base.

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste – Adds depth and richness.

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tbsp butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Bold and aromatic.

• 1 cup heavy cream – For a smooth, rich texture.

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

Pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti – Holds the sauces beautifully.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta

• Skillet or sauté pan (for Bolognese)

• Saucepan (for garlic butter cream sauce)

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Colander

• Ladle or tongs

• Cheese grater (optional, for fresh Parmesan)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Bolognese

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 oz spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Beef Bolognese Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté 1 chopped onion and 1 tablespoon minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.

Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to brown the garlic.

Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup heavy cream. Once heated through, mix in ½ cup grated Parmesan and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Toss the cooked spaghetti in the creamy garlic butter sauce until the noodles are fully coated. Either plate the noodles and spoon the Bolognese sauce over the top or mix everything together for a homestyle pasta bake feel.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm, topped with extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley if you’d like a pop of green. Add crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations & Add-Ons

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the Bolognese sauce for a gentle kick.

• Add veggies: Diced carrots, mushrooms, or spinach can be sautéed with the beef for extra nutrients.

• Swap the protein: Ground turkey or Italian sausage works great as a substitute.

• Use a different pasta: Penne, linguine, or fettuccine all pair well with these sauces.

Tips for Best Results

• Don’t overcook the garlic. Burnt garlic can turn bitter. Keep it golden and fragrant.

• Simmer the Bolognese. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan. It melts better and offers better flavor than pre-shredded.

Storage & Leftovers

To Store:
Let leftovers cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To Reheat:
Microwave in 60-second intervals, stirring between each burst, or gently reheat in a saucepan with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the silky texture.

To Freeze:
Freeze the sauces separately (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Food & Drink Pairings

Perfect Sides:

• Garlic bread or cheesy toast

• Caesar salad or mixed greens

• Roasted or steamed broccoli

Drink Pairings:

• Wine: A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Chianti pairs beautifully.

• Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon, or an Italian soda.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can make both sauces ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Cook the pasta fresh and reheat the sauces before combining.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The flavors are rich but not spicy, and the creamy garlic sauce tends to be a hit with picky eaters.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce instead?

You can substitute store-bought Bolognese, but making it fresh gives much better flavor. If using a jarred version, jazz it up with some fresh garlic and herbs.

How do I lighten up this recipe?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and lean ground turkey or chicken in place of beef. You can also skip the creamy sauce and just go with a light meat sauce if desired.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Bolognese Sauce is the ultimate fusion of two comfort food classics. It’s rich, savory, and packed with flavor—exactly the kind of satisfying dish that turns an ordinary dinner into something extraordinary. Whether you mix the sauces together or layer them, every bite will make you want seconds (and thirds!).

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your fellow pasta lovers and pin it to your dinner inspiration board. And don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more crave-worthy, comforting meals sent straight to your inbox. Mangia! 🍝🧄🍅