Some days call for a dish that’s not just satisfying but comforting too. Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is exactly that kind of meal. The creamy, cheesy sauce, tender penne pasta, and savory garlic butter ground beef make this dish a perfect go-to for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you just want something rich and indulgent. I discovered this recipe one night when I had some leftover ground beef and was craving something cheesy. The result was a mouthwatering combination of flavors that my family absolutely loved.

The beauty of this recipe lies in how quickly it comes together while still packing tons of flavor. The garlic butter ground beef brings savory depth, while the creamy mozzarella and Parmesan sauce adds comfort in every bite. Whether you’re feeding your family after a busy day or hosting a cozy dinner with friends, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 9-11 minutes) or until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Break the beef apart with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If you prefer a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Onion

In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing them until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be sure not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Add the heavy cream and beef broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and continue stirring until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.

Step 5: Combine the Beef and Pasta

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the creamy sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef to serving dishes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy!

Variation:

Feel free to customize this dish to fit different tastes or dietary preferences:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative, such as lentils or mushrooms, for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Spicy Option: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce to add some heat. You could also use spicy Italian sausage in place of ground beef for a spicier kick.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra color and nutrition. Add them along with the garlic and onion in Step 3 and sauté them until tender.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Cooking Note:

Here are a few tips to ensure your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef turns out perfectly:

• Avoid Overcooking the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so make sure to sauté it just until fragrant. If it burns, it can leave a bitter taste in the sauce.
• Use Full-Fat Dairy: For the creamiest sauce, use full-fat heavy cream. Low-fat versions won’t provide the same richness.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce gets too thick after adding the cheese, you can always loosen it with a little bit of pasta water, which helps the sauce stick better to the pasta.
• Don’t Skip the Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end not only adds color but also a fresh, herbal note that complements the rich flavors of the dish.

Serving Suggestions:

This hearty, cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with some complementary sides:

• Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: Serve a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the pasta. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad would work wonderfully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts add a nice crunch and balance to the creamy pasta.

Tips:

• Storage: Store any leftover cheesy penne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture and heat over low heat.
• Meal Prep: You can cook the ground beef and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and combine with the pre-made sauce.
• Freezing: This dish doesn’t freeze very well because of the dairy content. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a few days.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 680 kcal per serving (1/4 of the recipe)
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 850mg

Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

FAQs:

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Yes! If you prefer a different cheese, try using provolone, fontina, or a mix of your favorite cheeses. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well for the creamiest sauce.

Q2: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken would be great substitutes. They will provide a lighter version of the dish while still being flavorful.

Q3: How do I make this dish spicier?
You can add more red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a bit of hot sauce to the sauce to give it an extra kick.

Q4: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and ground beef mixture in advance, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve. The sauce will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food. The rich, creamy sauce and the savory, buttery ground beef come together perfectly to create a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It’s simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and filled with the kind of flavors that make you want to reach for seconds. Try this recipe the next time you need a comforting meal that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Enjoy, and don’t forget to share your thoughts or variations with us!