Slow Cooker Garlic Beef Penne

Slow Cooker Garlic Beef Penne is the kind of comforting, no-stress dinner that feels indulgent while staying incredibly easy. First, tender beef slowly cooks in a rich garlic-infused sauce until perfectly juicy. Then, it’s tossed with al dente penne for a cozy, satisfying meal that practically makes itself. Because everything develops low and slow, every bite tastes deeply savory, buttery, and well-balanced without feeling heavy.

Although slow cookers are often linked to soups and stews, pasta dishes like this one prove they’re just as versatile. In fact, slow-cooked beef has been a staple across many cuisines for centuries because gentle heat transforms tougher cuts into melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Meanwhile, garlic has long been celebrated not only for flavor but also for its ability to elevate simple ingredients.

Whether you’re feeding family or prepping leftovers for the week, this recipe fits beautifully into busy schedules. Best of all, it delivers restaurant-style flavor with minimal effort, making it a reliable favorite you’ll return to again and again.

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

12 oz penne pasta
1½ lb beef chuck, cut into bite-size pieces
1 cup diced tomatoes
6 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¾ cup beef broth
½ cup heavy cream
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Season and sear the beef:
First, season the beef with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Then, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and quickly sear the beef on all sides until browned.

2. Build the slow cooker base:
Next, transfer the beef to the slow cooker. Add garlic, diced tomatoes, and beef broth, stirring gently to combine.

3. Slow cook until tender:
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or until the beef is fork-tender and deeply flavorful.

4. Finish the sauce:
Afterward, stir in heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Let everything melt together for 10–15 minutes.

5. Cook the pasta:
Meanwhile, cook penne in salted water until al dente. Drain well.

6. Combine and serve:
Finally, fold the pasta into the sauce, toss gently, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• For ultra-tender beef: Searing first adds depth, but slow cooking does the real magic. Avoid lifting the lid early to keep moisture locked in.
• For perfect pasta texture: Always cook the penne separately. This prevents mushy noodles and keeps the sauce silky.
• For richer garlic flavor: Use fresh garlic, not pre-minced. It mellows beautifully during slow cooking and never tastes sharp.