Name: Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef: Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Penne Pasta (Holds creamy sauce well; substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or ziti for variety.); 1 lb Ground Beef (Adds richness and umami flavor; ground turkey or plant-based meat can be alternatives.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Used for sautéing without burning garlic; any light cooking oil can work.); 4 cloves Garlic (Provides a deep and aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.); 1 tsp Salt (Enhances the flavor of all ingredients; adjust based on dietary needs.); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Adds warmth; white pepper can be a milder alternative.); 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning (Infuses the dish with traditional Italian herbs; omit or use fresh herbs for a fresher flavor.); 1/4 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for a spicy kick; can be omitted for less heat.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Provides a rich, creamy sauce; half-and-half or a blend of milk and cornstarch can lighten it.); 1 cup Beef Broth (Adds depth of flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Delivers nutty, salty notes; Pecorino Romano can be substituted.); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Creates a gooey, stretchy texture; cheddar can be used for a different flavor profile.); 2 tbsp Parsley (Adds freshness and color for garnish; basil or oregano can be substituted.)

As the scent of garlic begins to dance through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of warmth and nostalgia wash over me. There’s something truly special about a hearty dish like Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, where every bite brings a comforting hug. This recipe is not only beginner-friendly, but it also transforms a simple evening into a delightful culinary adventure, with just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time. Imagine gathering around the table with loved ones, savoring this creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing comfort food, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your home. What’s your go-to pasta dish when you want to feel at home?

What makes this pasta dish a favorite?

Creamy Comfort: This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food, enveloping your taste buds in a rich, creamy sauce that feels like a warm embrace. Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s a delightful option for those busy weeknights. Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, beef, and cheese delivers a savory flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Versatile Base: Swap in different pasta shapes or even plant-based meats to tailor the dish to your preferences. For an extra veggie boost, consider adding some spinach for an appealing twist! Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish brings smiles to the table. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or even some crispy Garlic Butter Air for a complete meal experience!

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Penne Pasta – Holds creamy sauce well; substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or ziti for variety.

For the Meat Mixture
• Ground Beef – Adds richness and umami flavor; ground turkey or plant-based meat can be alternatives.
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing without burning garlic; any light cooking oil can work.
• Garlic – Provides a deep and aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of all ingredients; adjust based on dietary needs.
• Black Pepper – Adds warmth; white pepper can be a milder alternative.
• Italian Seasoning – Infuses the dish with traditional Italian herbs; omit or use fresh herbs for a fresher flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for a spicy kick; can be omitted for less heat.

For the Sauce
• Heavy Cream – Provides a rich, creamy sauce; half-and-half or a blend of milk and cornstarch can lighten it.
• Beef Broth – Adds depth of flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.

For the Cheese
• Parmesan Cheese – Delivers nutty, salty notes; Pecorino Romano can be substituted.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Creates a gooey, stretchy texture; cheddar can be used for a different flavor profile.

For the Garnish
• Parsley – Adds freshness and color for garnish; basil or oregano can be substituted.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, letting the steam escape to prevent it from overcooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden—be careful not to burn it, as this can make the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef taste bitter.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart, cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Once browned, drain any excess fat, ensuring the beef remains flavorful and not greasy.

Step 4: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes over the beef. Stir well to evenly coat the meat with the spices, allowing them to enhance the flavors of the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. Cook for another minute to combine.

Step 5: Create the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir the mixture continuously as it comes to a gentle simmer, allowing the creamy sauce to thicken slightly, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent boiling.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Fold the drained penne pasta into the skillet, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated in the rich sauce. Gently toss everything together using tongs, allowing the pasta to soak up all the delicious flavors of the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef for about 2 minutes.

Step 7: Add the Cheeses
Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the pasta mixture, stirring continuously until it melts completely and thickens the sauce. The mixture should become creamy and inviting, which will be the perfect base for the final cheesy goodness to come.

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella
Top the dish with shredded mozzarella cheese, spreading it evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey, luscious layer on top of your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Once the mozzarella is perfectly melted, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve steaming hot directly from the skillet, inviting everyone to dig into this comforting, homemade pasta dish.

What to Serve with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Imagine a cozy dinner table surrounded by laughter and the tantalizing aroma of fresh ingredients, creating the perfect setting for your meal.

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds a crispy texture and delicious flavor, making it an ideal companion to scoop up the creamy sauce.
Fresh Garden Salad: A vibrant salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender, steamed broccoli boosts nutrition and provides a vibrant green crunch, balancing the dish’s creamy nature without overshadowing it.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables offer a sweet and earthy flavor, enhancing the savory profile of the cheesy penne with great depth.
Italian Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese pairs beautifully, enriching each bite with fruity notes and complementing the garlic butter flavors.
Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, lemon sorbet serves as a palate cleanser that prepares your taste buds for more flavor while ending the meal on a sweet note.
Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft, warm knots infused with garlic and cheese create a fun and flavorful way to indulge even more in your comforting pasta dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the pasta and sauce components (up to 24 hours in advance), allowing you to simply combine and finish the dish when you’re ready to serve. To do this, cook the penne and prepare the sauce up to the point of adding the cheese; allow everything to cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the mixture in a skillet over low heat, stirring in the cheeses until melted. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, leaving you more time to relax with loved ones!

Expert Tips for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Ensure your penne pasta is cooked al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite, avoiding mushy pasta in your dish.

Don’t Rush the Garlic: Sauté garlic slowly over medium heat to bring out its flavor; burning it will result in a bitter taste that can ruin your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.

Monitor Cheese Melting: When adding mozzarella, cover the skillet and keep the heat low. High heat can cause the sauce to separate and become greasy.

Flavor Boost: Consider tossing in fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor that complements the savory beef.

Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Adding a splash of milk when reheating can help maintain creaminess.

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Fridge: Keep this delicious cheesy penne in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool down before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Leftover Tips: This creamy pasta can also be transformed into a baked dish. Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle additional cheese on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly.

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Variations

Feel free to customize this comforting dish to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs!

Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap regular penne for gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions. You’ll still enjoy all the creamy goodness without missing out.
Vegetable Boost: Add chopped spinach or sautéed zucchini for a healthy twist. These veggies not only enhance flavor but also pack in essential nutrients.
Spicy Kick: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes for more heat. A hint of spice can elevate the richness of the dish, making each bite more exciting!
Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and omit cheese for a creamy, dairy-free option that still feels indulgent.
Cheese Lovers: Mix in some ricotta or cream cheese for added creaminess, delivering a new level of richness sure to please any cheese connoisseur.
Savory Herb Swap: Try using fresh basil or oregano instead of Italian seasoning for a vibrant flavor profile. Fresh herbs bring a garden-fresh taste that’s unbeatable!
Extra Protein: If you’re in need of a protein boost, mix in some cooked, crumbled sausage or grilled chicken, offering a delightful meaty variation.
One-Pan Wonder: Skip boiling the pasta separately by layering everything in one dish, adding uncooked pasta with extra broth and cream. It’s an effortless way to create a comforting meal in less time!

No matter how you choose to adapt this dish, feel free to explore and have fun in the kitchen! For more flavors of garlic butter, consider trying my delightful Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac Cheese or enjoy the ease of my Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp. Happy cooking!

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select ripe garlic that is firm and unblemished. When choosing ground beef, look for a bright red color with minimal dark spots; this indicates freshness. If you see dark spots all over or it appears dull, consider it less than ideal.

How should I store leftovers of the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing it to cool before sealing to keep it fresh. For longer storage, you can also freeze it; just make sure to use an airtight container and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months!

Can I freeze Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Yes, you can. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. For the best quality, consume within 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

What if my sauce turns out too thick?
If your sauce is too thick, don’t worry! Simply stir in a splash of beef broth or heavy cream over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. Make sure to stir continuously to incorporate the liquid smoothly into the sauce.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using ground turkey or plant-based meat instead of beef for a lighter option. Ensure that all seasonings and cheeses used are free from any allergens for those with sensitivities. If preparing for vegetarian diners, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and eliminate the beef.

How long can I keep Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef in the fridge?
You can safely keep it in the refrigerator for about 3 days. Just remember to store it in an airtight container to maintain its delicious creaminess and flavor!