If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines rich flavors with simple ingredients, this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe is an absolute winner. It brings together tender penne pasta smothered in a luscious creamy cheese sauce infused with garlicky butter and hearty ground beef. Every bite offers a delicious harmony of gooey mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and a subtle touch of spice thanks to Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Whether you’re after a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to impress family and friends, this recipe delivers warm, cheesy goodness that feels like a big, tasty hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward pantry staples and fresh ingredients that each play a vital role in building its rich and delightful flavor. From savory ground beef to creamy cheeses, every element is essential to create the perfect balance of taste and texture.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect sturdy pasta shape that holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean): Adds hearty flavor and a juicy, meaty base to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the silky garlic butter sauce foundation.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers that irresistible aromatic punch everyone loves.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings an herby depth that complements the beef and cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the savory flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and sharpness.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Provides moisture and deepens the meaty flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Supplies that melty, stretchy cheesiness everyone craves.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty complexity to the cheesy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh pop of color and subtle freshness to finish.
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—meaning it should have a slight firmness when bitten. This ensures your pasta won’t get mushy when combined with the sauce later. Once cooked, drain it and set aside so that all the delicious flavors can be added in the skillet.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Then add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until fragrant and golden, but not burned. This step creates the irresistible garlic butter base that flavors the entire dish.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spoon or spatula. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until the beef is nicely browned and fully cooked through. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it off to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Season the Beef Mixture
Now it’s time to layer in flavors. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so these spices evenly coat the beef, giving the dish its comforting, familiar taste.
Step 5: Add Liquid Ingredients and Simmer
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer on medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and absorb the robust beef and garlic flavors.
Step 6: Melt in the Cheeses
Reduce the heat to low, then gradually stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until they melt fully, creating a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings deliciously to every penne piece.
Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add the cooked penne directly into the skillet with the cheesy garlic butter ground beef sauce. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, making sure each pasta piece is coated in that irresistible cheesy goodness.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
For the final flourish, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. This not only adds a lovely burst of color but also a light, fresh note that balances the richness perfectly.
How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the star garnish here, but feel free to experiment with chopped basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for extra flavor and visual appeal. A small drizzle of olive oil can also add a subtle richness on top.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty main with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli to add some freshness and crunch. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are excellent for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the cheesy penne in individual shallow bowls seasoned with a little extra cheese and fresh herbs. If you’re meal prepping, assemble it in mason jars or airtight containers for easy grab-and-go meals that reheat beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container and leave some room at the top for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, use the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and to bring back that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great for a leaner option. Just be mindful that the flavor will be slightly lighter, so you may want to enhance seasoning to compensate.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you could substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious vegetarian twist that still feels hearty and satisfying.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can cook the pasta and beef mixture ahead of time, then combine and melt the cheese just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
What type of cheese is best for melting in this recipe?
Mozzarella is ideal for its stretch and meltiness, while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty contrast. Together they create the perfect cheesy balance for this dish.
How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add only a gentle warmth that enhances the flavors without making it too spicy. You can easily leave them out if you prefer no heat at all.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe quickly becomes a favorite because it combines comforting, familiar flavors with ease of preparation. It’s just the kind of meal that brings people together around the table with smiles and satisfied bellies. Give it a try, and I promise it will become your go-to recipe when you need something delicious, cheesy, and utterly comforting!
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Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender penne with a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce and savory ground beef. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers comfort and indulgence in every bite with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creating a luscious texture.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Meat and Dairy
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Broth
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Season: Stir in Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the cooked beef mixture, ensuring even seasoning.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, then let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors and slightly thicken the sauce.
- Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the cheese and beef sauce. Toss thoroughly to evenly coat the pasta in the cheesy garlic butter sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh finish, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a leaner alternative, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the skillet for extra vegetables and added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
