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Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Indulgent Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Bliss

A heartwarming Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe that is rich in flavors and quick to prepare.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Penne Pasta Can substitute with rigatoni or ziti if desired.
For the Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Swap with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Perfect for sautéing garlic and ground beef.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Essential for aroma and flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds warmth.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Can use dried basil and oregano.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) Offers a touch of heat.
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • 1 cup Beef Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian alternative.
For the Cheese Topping
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Fresh gives the best flavor.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Low-fat cheese can be used for a lighter dish.
For Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped Can substitute with basil or chives.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Spatula

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Add the drained penne to the skillet, tossing it to coat well with the creamy sauce.
  7. Gradually stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts and creates a creamy texture.
  8. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta. Cover the skillet until the cheese is melted and gooey.
  9. Garnish with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve fresh for the best experience and enjoy the gooeyness of the melted mozzarella.