The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil fills the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Italian trattoria. Today, I want to share my go-to comfort meal: Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. This dish is a warm embrace on your plate and combines hearty ground beef with creamy sauce and tender penne pasta. Not only is it beginner-friendly, but it also comes together in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for hectic weeknights or a lazy weekend lunch. The rich flavors meld together beautifully, ensuring each forkful is satisfying and delicious. Wondering how you can elevate your dinner game effortlessly? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Hearty Comfort Food: This dish combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory ground beef, perfect for cozy dinners.
Beginner-Friendly: Even novice cooks can tackle this recipe with ease, making it a great choice for anyone looking to build their culinary skills.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 50 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something filling without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shapes or add veggies like spinach to boost nutrition while maintaining that mouthwatering flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: This cheesy penne is sure to impress family and friends, making it a go-to staple for gatherings or potlucks. For more delicious meals like this, check out Garlic Butter Shrimp or Savory Ground Turkey for more comfort food inspiration!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Penne Pasta – The perfect vessel for the creamy sauce; substitute with rigatoni for variety.
For the Beef Mixture
- Ground Beef – Juicy and full of flavor; for a lighter dish, use ground turkey or chicken.
- Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing garlic, adding a lovely richness; can use vegetable oil if needed.
- Garlic – Enhances the aroma and depth of flavor; use minced or powdered for convenience.
- Salt – Essential for bringing out the dish’s flavors; always adjust according to your taste.
- Black Pepper – Adds a touch of warmth; omit for a milder flavor or adjust to your preference.
- Italian Seasoning – A delightful mix of herbs to elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Sprinkle in for a touch of heat; leave out for a milder taste.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious texture for the sauce; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter touch.
- Beef Broth – Adds depth and consistency; use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
For the Cheesy Topping
- Parmesan Cheese – Infuses a nutty richness into the dish; swap for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Essential for that gooey topping; provolone works as a great substitute.
For Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens up the dish visually and adds a fresh flavor; optional but highly recommended.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside in a large bowl while you prepare the garlic butter ground beef.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, taking care not to burn it. The aroma of garlic will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet with the garlic. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat before moving to the next step. The beef should be well-crumbled and slightly caramelized for optimal flavor.
Step 4: Season the Beef
Lower the heat to medium and season the cooked ground beef with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together thoroughly, allowing the spices to coat the beef evenly while cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes. This step enhances the deliciousness of your Cheesy Penne.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. The creamy texture will form a luscious base that beautifully envelops the penne pasta later on.
Step 6: Mix in the Pasta
Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss to ensure every piece is coated with the creamy garlic butter sauce. Stir gently for about 2 minutes, so the pasta is well mixed and heated through. You should see the sauce enveloping the pasta generously, indicating it is time for the next cheesy step.
Step 7: Add Parmesan Cheese
Gradually sprinkle in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it melts into the sauce and thickens further, about 2-3 minutes. The cheese should seamlessly blend, enhancing the flavor and creaminess of your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, making it extra comforting.
Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella
Evenly distribute 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely. As it melts, it will create an irresistibly gooey topping that completes your dish perfectly.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Once the mozzarella is melted, remove the lid and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef warm, paired with a side salad or crusty garlic bread for a delightful, hearty meal your family will love.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef are perfect for meal prep! You can cook the penne pasta and prepare the garlic butter ground beef mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the cooked pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate the beef mixture separately. To maintain quality, allow them to cool completely before storing, and cover tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the beef mixture in a skillet until warmed through, then add the pasta and continue with the cheese melting step as directed. You’ll enjoy the same comforting flavors with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
When your plate is filled with silky, cheesy goodness, it’s easy to crave the perfect accompaniments to complete your meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: This classic choice complements the cheesy penne’s rich flavors while adding a satisfying crunch.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons contrast beautifully with the pasta, bringing freshness to your plate.
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Steamed Broccoli: The light bitterness of broccoli enhances the dish and adds vibrant color, keeping the meal balanced and nutritious.
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Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies, like bell peppers and zucchini, provide a lovely texture contrast and an earthy complement to the savory beef.
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Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The tangy-sweet glaze offers a fantastic juxtaposition to the creamy dish, heightening the overall flavor experience.
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Wine Pairing – Chianti: A glass of Chianti provides herbaceous notes that match the Italian seasoning of the dish, enhancing your dinner as you savor each bite.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: Conclude your meal with indulgence! This warm dessert offers rich chocolate flavor, perfectly balancing the savory main course.
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Spicy Roasted Chickpeas: For a unique twist, these add a crunchy element, and their spiciness can wonderfully uplift the creamy tones of the penne.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Penne
Perfect Pasta Cook: Always cook your penne al dente to prevent mushiness; remember it will continue cooking when combined with the sauce.
Garlic Care: Sauté garlic just until fragrant and golden; burning it can introduce bitterness into your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.
Cheesy Greatness: Gradually add Parmesan cheese to the sauce for a silky finish; stirring constantly ensures even melting and prevents clumping.
Season to Taste: Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings throughout; the right balance of salt and spices elevates the overall flavor of your dish.
Rest for Flavor: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld and ensures the cheese melts beautifully, enhancing texture.
Storage Tips for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Fridge: Store your leftover Cheesy Penne in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the creamy texture, warming gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Cooling: Ensure the dish cools to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delicious dish your own with these delightful twists!
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Pasta Swap: Use fusilli or farfalle for a fun pasta shape—each brings a unique texture to soak up the creamy sauce.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and a pop of color; sauté them along with the garlic until tender.
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Protein Variation: For a lighter take, substitute ground turkey or chicken, keeping that juicy texture while reducing calories.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and cheese for a delightful vegan version.
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Saucy Surprise: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a depth of flavor that takes your cheesy penne to gourmet heights.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic twist that brightens the dish beautifully.
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Spice It Up: Amp up the heat with more crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for an exciting kick.
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Garnish Upgrade: Instead of just parsley, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or crispy bacon bits on top for a crunchy textural contrast.
Exploring these variations can truly enhance your cooking experience. For more flavorful ideas, why not try my Ground Beef Potato dish or the comforting Shepherd’s Pie Ground Beef?
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best penne pasta?
Absolutely! When choosing penne, look for high-quality pasta made from 100% durum wheat semolina. It should feel firm and have a slightly rough texture for the sauce to cling better. Avoid any pasta with dark spots or an excessively soft texture, which may indicate inferior quality.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream to maintain that luscious, creamy texture.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Cheesy Penne, place it in an airtight, freezer-safe container after it has completely cooled. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can either thaw it overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from the freezer—just be sure to add a splash of beef broth or cream to help revive the sauce’s creaminess.
What should I do if my cheese doesn’t melt smoothly?
If you encounter clumping or grainy cheese, don’t worry! This can happen if the cheese is added too quickly or the heat is too high. To fix this, remove the skillet from heat and whisk vigorously to break up the cheese. If it’s still stubborn, adding a little warm cream or broth can help create a smoother consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the penne pasta with a gluten-free version—many brands offer fantastic options that hold up well in recipes. Just ensure that all other ingredients, especially the broth, are certified gluten-free as well to avoid any cross-contamination.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Very much so! You can definitely amp up the nutrition by tossing in vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just add them in during the sautéing step with the ground beef so they cook through and blend beautifully with the flavors of the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef: Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Lower the heat to medium and season the cooked ground beef with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir thoroughly for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy sauce. Stir gently for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually sprinkle in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it melts into the sauce.
- Distribute 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit on low heat for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving warm.