There’s something truly heartwarming about the combination of pasta and cheese, especially when it’s draped in a garlic-infused sauce. As I was experimenting in the kitchen, the idea of creating a comforting dish led me to this delightful recipe for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. With the perfect balance of rich flavors and creamy textures, this dish not only warms the soul but also makes for an easy dinner solution that anyone can whip up in just about 50 minutes. Whether you’re looking to impress your family on a busy weeknight or simply craving a hearty meal that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, this recipe checks all the boxes. Get ready to indulge in flavors that will have your taste buds dancing while saying goodbye to bland takeout and fast food!
Why will you love Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Comforting Flavors: Every bite of this dish is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory notes, perfect for cozy evenings.
Beginner-Friendly: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll feel like a pro chef in no time.
Quick Prep: In just about 50 minutes, you can create a hearty meal that impresses family and friends.
Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is sure to be a hit at the table, satisfying both kids and adults alike.
Versatile Options: Want to lighten it up? Swap in ground turkey or add some leafy greens like spinach for extra nutrition.
Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete indulgent experience! You might also enjoy this perfect combo with Savory Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake as a delightful option.
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Ingredients
For the Pasta
• 12 oz Penne Pasta – The main carbohydrate that holds the creamy sauce; can substitute with rigatoni or ziti if desired.
For the Sauce
• 1 lb Ground Beef – Adds protein and a savory flavor base; swap with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing garlic and ground beef, providing richness.
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced – Essential for aroma and flavor; avoid garlic powder for the best results.
• 1 teaspoon Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to personal taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper – Adds warmth; modify for desired spice level.
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning – Infuses depth with its blend of herbs; can use dried basil and oregano.
• 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Offers a touch of heat; omit for a milder sauce.
• 2 cups Heavy Cream – Creates the creamy base for the sauce; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• 1 cup Beef Broth – Enhances depth; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian alternative.
For the Cheese Topping
• 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds richness and umami; fresh gives the best flavor.
• 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Provides gooey texture; low-fat cheese can be used for a lighter dish.
For Garnish
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped – Brightens the dish’s presentation; can substitute with basil or chives.
With these ingredients, you’ll soon be savoring every bite of your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, a comforting meal that’s simple and satisfying!
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a pot of salted water, adding the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Brown the Meat: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
- Season the Beef: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to ensure even seasoning.
- Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in 1 cup of beef broth and 2 cups of heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne to the skillet, tossing it to coat well with the creamy sauce.
- Mix in Parmesan: Gradually stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to mix until it melts and creates a creamy texture.
- Add Mozzarella Topping: Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a touch of color and freshness.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of olive oil before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
- Perfect Garlic: Avoid browning the garlic too much; otherwise, it can turn bitter and ruin the dish’s flavor profile.
- Fat Management: Be sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef after browning. This helps maintain a rich but not greasy sauce.
- Pasta Coating: When adding the cooked penne, toss it well in the sauce to ensure every piece is coated and prevent it from sticking together.
- Creamy Consistency: If using lower-fat cream alternatives, remember that your sauce may not be as rich and creamy as using heavy cream.
- Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef right after preparation to enjoy the gooeyness of the melted mozzarella.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Portioning it first makes it easier to defrost.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to maintain creaminess.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the cheesy penne in advance and refrigerate it, making weeknight dinners a breeze without sacrificing flavor.
What to Serve with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Cozy up to dinner with these delightful pairings that elevate your mealtime experience!
- Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the dish’s richness and adds a pop of color.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, enhancing the experience with every bite.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to bring sweetness and nutrition to your plate.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw with a tangy dressing provides a nice contrast to the creaminess of the pasta, making each mouthful exciting.
- Sliced Baguette: Freshly baked baguette slices can be served warm, offering a crunchy texture that complements the hearty pasta dish beautifully.
- Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio: These white wines will elevate your dinner, with their crisp profile pairing well with the creamy flavors of the cheesy penne.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in a rich chocolate lava cake to end your meal on a sweet, decadent note, satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ensure you take the time to find the perfect accompaniments! Each of these pairings adds its touch to your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, making dinner truly special.
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this dish to match your taste and dietary needs!
- Pasta Swap: Use fusilli or ziti instead of penne for a playful twist in texture and shape.
- Lighter Protein: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or even lentils for a lighter, plant-based option.
- Cream Alternative: For a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt, keeping the creaminess intact.
- Veggie Boost: Add in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and a pop of color.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in place of Italian seasoning for a fragrant flavor.
- Heat It Up: Spice things up with a handful of jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to satisfy your heat cravings.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in different cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor profile and extra cheesiness.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
Each of these variations elevates your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef to reflect your personal culinary flair. Enjoy the journey!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right beef for my Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You want to look for ground beef that has a nice balance of lean to fat ratio, ideally around 80/20. This blend provides enough fat to keep the meat juicy while preventing your dish from being greasy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or a plant-based alternative can work wonderfully too, offering a lighter flavor without losing the heartiness of the dish.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Leftovers usually keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container. Ensure the dish has cooled to room temperature before sealing. When storing, it’s also a good idea to keep some cream on hand to add back while reheating, keeping the dish creamy and delicious.
Can I freeze Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Very! You can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To do this, I recommend portioning it into individual servings, which makes thawing quicker and easier. Just remember to let it cool down before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in a pan, adding a splash of cream to revive its creamy texture.
What if the sauce turns out too thick while cooking?
Not a problem! If your sauce appears thicker than you’d like, simply add a splash of beef broth or water and stir it in. This will help loosen the sauce while maintaining that delicious flavor. Also, remember that the pasta absorbs some of the liquid, so it might become thicker after being combined.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, indeed! You can easily modify it for different dietary needs. For those with dairy allergies, using a plant-based cream and cheese will work well. Just be sure to double-check product labels for any allergen-specific information. For those monitoring carbohydrate intake, you can substitute the penne with zucchini noodles or whole grain pasta for a healthier twist.
Indulgent Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by boiling a pot of salted water, adding the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
- Lower the heat and pour in 1 cup of beef broth and 2 cups of heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 5 minutes.
- Add the drained penne to the skillet, tossing it to coat well with the creamy sauce.
- Gradually stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts and creates a creamy texture.
- Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta. Cover the skillet until the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Garnish with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
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