Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the pot, the aroma of garlic wafted through the kitchen, instantly transforming a regular evening into something special. There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef that feels like a warm hug after a long day. This recipe is not only beginner-friendly, but it also promises a delightful blend of cheesy goodness and savory satisfaction—not to mention, it comes together in under an hour! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked meal without the fuss. Who can resist a rich, creamy pasta dish that is equally comforting and delicious? Let’s dive in and discover how easily you can whip up this mouthwatering dish! Why is this recipe a must-try? Simplicity Guaranteed: With only a handful of ingredients, this dish is perfect for any home cook, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef. Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic, ground beef, and cheeses creates a hearty, indulgent meal that’s impossible to resist. Time-Saving Delight: In just under an hour, you can have a comforting dinner ready to enjoy, perfect for those busy weeknights. Versatile Base: Feel free to swap out penne for rigatoni or fusilli based on what you have on hand. Crowd-Pleasing Touch: This Cheesy Penne is just what you need for family gatherings or cozy nights in—pair it with a fresh salad or easy Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks for a complete meal! Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Ingredients For the Pasta Penne Pasta – This forms the heart of the dish; feel free to use rigatoni or fusilli for a fun twist. For the Meat Sauce Ground Beef – Adds richness and a hearty flavor; consider using lean turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing garlic; avocado oil can be an excellent substitute. Garlic (minced) – Infuses the sauce with aromatic goodness; garlic powder works in a pinch if you’re out of fresh. Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust based on dietary preferences. Black Pepper – Brings warmth and depth; white pepper can be swapped for a milder taste. Italian Seasoning – This blend gives the dish its herbaceous flair; fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be substituted. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Add a bit of heat for those craving spice; omit for a milder experience. For the Creamy Sauce Heavy Cream – It creates a luscious, rich sauce; half-and-half or a plant-based milk can lighten it up. Beef Broth – Deepens the sauce’s flavor; vegetable broth serves as a lighter alternative. For the Cheesy Toppings Parmesan Cheese (grated) – Provides salty, nutty undertones; Pecorino Romano can be a lovely substitute. Mozzarella Cheese (shredded) – Allows for a gooey, satisfying topping; any melting cheese like Gouda works beautifully. For the Fresh Touch Parsley (chopped, for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness; you can use basil or chives for an interesting twist. With these ingredients, you’re ready to create a dish of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef that will warm hearts and fill bellies! 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. Once boiling, carefully add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. When ready, drain the pasta and set it aside, ensuring it has a little residual heat to keep it warm for the creamy sauce. Step 2: Sauté the Garlic In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, being cautious not to let it brown. This aromatic base will infuse the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef with all the comforting flavors you desire. Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the meat is fully browned with no pink remaining. If there’s excess fat, drain it carefully to keep the sauce rich but not greasy, ensuring the beef contributes its hearty flavor. Step 4: Season the Mixture Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Stir the mixture well to combine, allowing the spices to coat the beef evenly. Cook for another minute until the spices bloom, creating a savory foundation for your cheesy sauce, blending perfectly with the Cheesy Penne. Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce Reduce the heat to medium, then pour in 1 cup of beef broth and 1 cup of heavy cream to the skillet. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Watch for small bubbles to form; this means the sauce is thickening beautifully, ready to coat the penne. Step 6: Combine the Pasta Gently fold the cooked penne pasta into the creamy beef sauce. Use tongs or a large spoon to combine, ensuring every piece of pasta is well-coated with the sauce. This integration is key to making your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef truly comforting, as the flavors meld harmoniously. Step 7: Add the Parmesan Cheese Gradually mix in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the pasta, continuing to stir until the cheese melts and helps thicken the sauce even further. The rich, cheesy flavor will envelop the penne, making it irresistibly delicious and giving it a beautiful, creamy texture that’s hard to resist. Step 8: Top with Mozzarella Finally, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top of the pasta. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for about 3-5 minutes over low heat. This step will allow the mozzarella to melt perfectly, creating a gooey, delightful topping that completes your Cheesy Penne. Step 9: Garnish and Serve Once the cheese has melted and is bubbling slightly, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. Serve your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef warm, and watch it disappear as everyone digs into this hearty, comforting dish! Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the penne pasta and prepare the garlic butter ground beef mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following the first five steps of the recipe. Simply refrigerate the cooked pasta and beef separately in airtight containers. To maintain quality, be sure to slightly undercook the pasta, as it will continue to cook when reheated. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, gently reheat the beef mixture on the stove and toss in the pre-cooked penne. Add the cream and cheese to finish, resulting in a delicious dinner that feels freshly made without the time crunch! What to Serve with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Enhancing your dining experience is easy when you pair this comforting dish with delightful accompaniments that complement its rich flavors. Garlic Bread: This crispy delight offers the perfect vessel for scooping up every cheesy morsel, creating a satisfying crunch against the creamy penne. Caesar Salad: The refreshing romaine, crisp croutons, and tangy dressing bring a vibrant crunch, balancing the richness of the Cheesy Penne. Steamed Broccoli: A vibrant green side that introduces a fresh, slightly bitter contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile while adding a healthy touch. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized sweetness and slight char provide a delightful textural counterpoint, enriching your meal with earthy goodness. Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine perfectly accompanies the savory beef sauce, highlighting the warm garlic and cheese flavors beautifully. Mango Sorbet: A refreshing dessert to cleanse the palate after a hearty meal, the fruity sweetness of sorbet adds a lovely dimension to the dining experience. Herbed Focaccia: Soft, fluffy bread topped with herbs creates a perfect pairing, ideal for sopping up that creamy sauce while adding a delightful aroma. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter twist, serve zucchini noodles alongside to embrace a touch of freshness and crunch to balance the heaviness. Italian Roast Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies add a colorful, flavorful layer to your dinner plate, enhancing the Italian comfort experience. Sparkling Water: A refreshing sparkling water or lemonade brightens the table, providing a bubbly contrast to the rich flavors of the Cheesy Penne. How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Penne Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ready for reheating. Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, ensure it’s tightly sealed. Allow to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess and moisture to the dish. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Cheesy Penne out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain freshness. Expert Tips for Cheesy Penne Delight Avoid Bitter Garlic: Don’t let the garlic brown while sautéing; it can impart bitterness to your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. Optimal Meat Browning: Ensure the ground beef is cooked thoroughly to bring out the rich flavors. Drain excess fat but leave a little for richness. Thorough Mixing: Stir the pasta well into the sauce to ensure that every bite is infused with the delicious flavors of the cheesy sauce. Personalize the Heat: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference, allowing everyone to enjoy their plate just the way they like it. Cheese Meltdown: Let the final mozzarella layer sit covered for a few minutes to achieve that perfectly gooey cheese topping—worth the wait! Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Variations Feel free to play with this recipe and add your own flair to make it uniquely yours! Pasta Alternatives: Swap penne for rigatoni, ziti, or even spaghetti for a fun texture twist. Vegetable Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a nutritious boost. These will not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to your dish. Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version while keeping the same savory satisfaction. Creamy Dream: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based milk like almond or oat for a lighter sauce that still tastes rich. Extra Spice: Crank up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of hot sauce to the dish. This adds a lively kick that spice lovers will appreciate! Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs instead of dried Italian seasoning. A mix of fresh basil, oregano, and parsley can elevate the dish! Cheese Variety: Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or try adding a blend of cheeses like Gouda or Fontina for a different cheesy dimension. Garnish Options: Top with toasted breadcrumbs mixed with herbs for added crunch or swap out parsley for fresh basil or chives for a fresh finish. With these variations, your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef will never get boring! For more delicious ideas, explore our Garlic Butter Steak or enjoy it with a side of Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks! Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe FAQs What type of penne should I use? Absolutely! While penne pasta is the classic choice for this dish, you can easily swap it out with other fun pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli. Each option brings a unique twist and will hold the creamy sauce perfectly! How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s sealed well to keep the flavors intact. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or oven; adding a splash of milk or cream can help keep it creamy. Can I freeze Cheesy Penne? Very! To freeze your Cheesy Penne, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, and stir in a bit of milk or cream to restore that delicious creaminess! What if my garlic starts to brown? If you accidentally brown the garlic while cooking, it can lead to a bitter taste in your sauce. To avoid this, always sauté garlic over medium heat and keep an eye on it, stirring frequently. If it starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat immediately. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? For sure! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, you can easily adjust this recipe. Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities, and if dairy is a concern, opt for a dairy-free cream and cheese substitutes, which can provide a similar taste and texture. Additionally, if you’re looking for a leaner meal, feel free to swap ground beef for lean turkey or chicken! Can I add vegetables to this dish? Absolutely! I often toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms when I’m feeling creative. Just sauté them alongside the garlic to infuse those flavors. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds lovely textures and flavors to your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef! Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef for Cozy Nights No ratings yet Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a comforting dish that combines cheesy goodness with savory satisfaction. Perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 ounces Penne Pasta or rigatoni or fusilliFor the Meat Sauce1 pound Ground Beef or lean turkey or chicken2 tablespoons Olive Oil or avocado oil4 cloves Garlic (minced) or garlic powder1 teaspoon Salt adjust based on dietary preferences1 teaspoon Black Pepper or white pepper1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning or fresh herbs like basil or oregano1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes optionalFor the Creamy Sauce1 cup Heavy Cream or half-and-half or plant-based milk1 cup Beef Broth or vegetable brothFor the Cheesy Toppings1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated) or Pecorino Romano1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded) or any melting cheeseFor the Fresh Touch2 tablespoons Parsley (chopped, for garnish) or basil or chives Equipment large potLarge skillet Method Cooking InstructionsCook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.Add ground beef to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart until fully browned.Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well and cook for another minute.Reduce heat to medium and pour in beef broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.Gently fold the cooked penne into the creamy beef sauce until well-coated.Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.Top the pasta with shredded mozzarella cheese, cover the skillet, and let it sit over low heat for 3-5 minutes until cheese melts.Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftover Cheesy Penne in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat adding a splash of milk for moisture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
