Delicious Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting and delicious meal that can be whipped up in no time, look no further than Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. This dish combines the rich flavors of garlic butter and savory ground beef with the creamy goodness of cheese, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or hosting friends for a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

The beauty of Cheesy Penne lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to allow for personal touches—add your favorite vegetables, adjust the spice level, or experiment with different cheeses to make it your own.

So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

What Makes Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Special?

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings together a medley of flavors and textures. Here are a few reasons why this dish stands out:

1. Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic butter and ground beef creates a rich, savory base that is both comforting and satisfying. The garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma, while the butter adds a luscious creaminess that coats each piece of penne pasta.
2. Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream and cheese transforms this dish into a creamy delight. As the cheese melts, it binds the ingredients together, ensuring that every bite is filled with cheesy goodness. Mixing different types of cheese, such as cheddar and mozzarella, can enhance the creaminess and flavor profile even further.
3. Quick and Easy: One of the best aspects of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
4. Customizable: This recipe serves as a fantastic base that you can easily customize. Want to add some vegetables? Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be tossed in for added nutrition and flavor. Prefer a bit of heat? A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish to suit your taste.
5. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish. Its cheesy, comforting nature makes it a hit with picky eaters, ensuring that everyone at the table will enjoy their meal. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce new flavors without overwhelming young palates.

In summary, Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and ease of preparation. It’s perfect for any occasion, making it a staple in many households.

Ingredients for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

To craft this delicious and comforting dish, you’ll need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a rich and satisfying meal. Here’s what goes into making Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef:

• 12 oz Penne Pasta
  Penne is the ideal pasta shape for this dish thanks to its tubular design, which holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• 1 lb Ground Beef
  Rich in protein and hearty in flavor, the ground beef adds a savory depth that complements the cheesy and buttery sauce beautifully.
• 3 Tablespoons Butter
  Butter is essential for creating that luscious garlic butter base, giving the dish its signature richness and smooth texture.
• 4 Cloves Garlic, Minced
  Fresh garlic elevates the aroma and injects a vibrant punch of flavor. Don’t substitute it with pre-minced garlic for best results.
• 1 Small Onion, Finely Chopped
  The onion adds a natural sweetness and layers of flavor that balance the richness of the beef and cheese.
• 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
  A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme brings an Italian flair to the dish. It adds depth and enhances the savory notes.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)
  For those who love a little heat, red pepper flakes add a subtle kick that wakes up the palate without overpowering the dish.
• 1 Cup Heavy Cream
  Heavy cream creates the creamy sauce that binds the pasta and beef together—key for that indulgent mouthfeel.
• 1/2 Cup Beef Broth
  A splash of beef broth adds savory umami and helps thin the sauce slightly to coat the pasta more evenly.
• Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese (Suggested Additions)
  While not listed originally, mixing sharp cheddar with mozzarella is recommended for the perfect creamy, melty cheese texture that makes this dish irresistible.

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in the harmony of flavors and textures, making Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef a standout meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make this comforting dish:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Beef:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside in a bowl.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Base:
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and the onion is translucent. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of the dish.
4. Build the Sauce:
   Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, whisking to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine:
   Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the creamy sauce. Then, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
6. Serve:
   Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

By following these simple steps, you’ll have a hearty and flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of cheesy goodness and savory beef makes this recipe a must-try for any pasta lover.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Penne

To ensure your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips and variations:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients:
   For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic and high-quality butter. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste and aroma of the dish, making it more enjoyable.
2. Mix Cheeses for Depth:
   While the recipe can be made with just one type of cheese, combining sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella creates a delightful texture and flavor. Cheddar adds a tangy bite, while mozzarella provides that gooey, melty quality that everyone loves.
3. Cook Pasta Al Dente:
   Be sure to cook the penne pasta al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce and ensures it holds its shape.
4. Adjust the Spice Level:
   If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you enjoy a bit of heat, increase the amount to suit your taste. You can also add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
5. Add Vegetables:
   To boost the nutritional value and add more flavor, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Sauté them along with the onions for a delicious addition that complements the dish.
6. Make It Ahead:
   This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
7. Garnish for Presentation:
   A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your dish, making it visually appealing.

By following these tips, you can elevate your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef to new heights, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and ease of preparation. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to serve something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With its savory ground beef, aromatic garlic butter, and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Whether you choose to stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite vegetables and spices, the possibilities are endless. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a hearty meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and variations with friends and family, and make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef a staple in your home!

FAQ For Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Delicious Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

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• Author: Erika
• Total Time: PT30M
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Ingredients

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• 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
• Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese (Suggested Additions)

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Instructions

 

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant.
4. Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, then add the heavy cream and beef broth, simmering until slightly thickened.
5. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and mix in the penne pasta, ensuring everything is well coated in the sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cheese or parsley if desired.

Notes

Pros

• Quick and easy to prepare.
• Rich and comforting flavors.
• Customizable with various vegetables and spices.
• Family-friendly and appealing to picky eaters.
• Perfect for weeknight dinners.

Cons

• Can be high in calories and fat.
• May require additional ingredients for customization.
• Not suitable for those with gluten or dairy allergies.

• Prep Time: PT10M
• Cook Time: PT20M
• Category: Main Dish
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 600 calories per serving