Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

2. Add the ground beef and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using).

3. Break up the beef with a spoon and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.

4. Once the beef is browned, remove any excess fat if necessary, then set the beef aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same pot, add 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Let the butter melt and begin to bubble.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, but be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Stir in the dried thyme and basil if using, and cook for another 30 seconds to release the herbs’ flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, followed by 2 cups of beef broth.

2. Stir everything together and bring the broth to a boil.

3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese

1. When the pasta is cooked, add 1 cup of heavy cream to the pot and stir well.

2. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.

Step 5: Return the Beef & Finish

1. Add the cooked beef back into the pot, stirring it in so it’s evenly distributed throughout the creamy pasta.

2. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

1. Remove the pot from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

2. Serve the creamy beef and garlic butter pasta immediately, and enjoy!