Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is that dreamy comfort food dish you never knew you needed—until now! Imagine tender penne pasta bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, loaded with savory ground beef, and crowned with a melty blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Creamy, cheesy, and just a little bit spicy, every forkful is pure dinner bliss. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving something cozy and satisfying, this recipe strikes the perfect harmony between simplicity and flavor. The best part? It comes together with familiar, easy-to-find ingredients, so you can whip it up whenever the cravings hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s truly amazing how this small handful of everyday ingredients comes together to create such depth and comfort in a single dish. Each component in Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef brings its own flair—from hearty beef to those rich, melty cheeses, and a kick of Italian seasoning for good measure.

• Penne Pasta: The pasta’s tubular shape is perfect for catching every bit of the creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Ground Beef: Choose an 80/20 blend for the right mix of flavor and juiciness.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle in the skillet helps the garlic bloom and gives the beef extra richness.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a bold aroma and undeniable depth to the dish.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning the pasta water and the beef, enhancing every flavor.
• Black Pepper: Gives a gentle heat that ties the sauce and beef together.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs such as oregano and basil brings a classic Italian vibe.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Add a subtle kick of spice—just enough to liven things up.
• Heavy Cream: Lends extraordinary creaminess and turns the sauce into pure velvet.
• Beef Broth: Intensifies the meaty flavor while balancing the richness of the cream.
• Parmesan Cheese: Choose freshly grated for the best melt and a punchy, nutty taste.
• Mozzarella Cheese: A layer of mozzarella provides that crave-worthy gooey, melted topping.
• Fresh Parsley: A final sprinkle for a pop of color and a hint of freshness right before serving.

How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Get started by cooking your penne until it’s just al dente—firm to the bite but not crunchy. Salt your boiling water generously, because well-seasoned pasta is key for maximum flavor! Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside; it will get drenched in that luscious sauce very soon.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the olive oil and add the minced garlic. As soon as that aroma hits, you’ll know you’re on the right track! Sauté just until fragrant, about a minute, but avoid browning the garlic—it can turn bitter fast.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add your ground beef straight into the garlicky oil. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks so you get lots of juicy browned bits. Take a moment to drain off any excess fat—the dish will feel lighter and the flavors more pronounced.

Step 4: Season the Beef

Now crank up the flavor! Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and, if you like a bit of heat, those optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and enjoy how the herby aroma takes over your kitchen.

Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce

Lower your heat to medium, then pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir gently as the liquids mingle, forming a decadent, silky base for your pasta. Give it a minute or two so the flavors come together beautifully.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Bring that reserved penne into the skillet and toss it so every piece is lovingly coated in the sauce. This isn’t just mixing; it’s marrying those noodles with a blanket of creamy, savory goodness, making Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef irresistible.

Step 7: Add the Parmesan

Gradually sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly. It melts into the hot cream, thickening the sauce and adding a salty, nutty undertone that ties the whole dish together.

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella

Scatter shredded mozzarella over the top, then cover the skillet for a few minutes. Let the cheese melt into glorious strings—you’ll see why this is the best part. It’s an ooey-gooey finish that makes everyone dig in faster!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the finished Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. This gives a burst of freshness and a touch of color that makes the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan on top make this dish pop both in flavor and presentation. For a touch more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes over each plate does wonders. If you want to add a gourmet twist, shave some extra Parmesan at the table—your guests will love it.

Side Dishes

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is rich and satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Think crisp Caesar salad, garlicky sauteed green beans, or a rustic, crusty bread for mopping up that extra sauce—no drop goes to waste!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this dish family-style in a big, shallow pasta bowl, letting everyone dig in. For gatherings, portion the pasta into mini cast iron skillets for an upscale touch. If you’re feeling playful, scoop it into individual ramekins and broil quickly for a golden, bubbling cheese crown!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef into an airtight container once cooled. It’ll keep happily in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for effortless lunches or a next-day dinner that tastes just as comforting.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Let the dish cool completely first, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave. A splash of cream or milk will revive the creamy sauce if it seems a bit thick. Stir frequently and heat just until hot and bubbly—overcooking can make the cheese separate.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While penne is classic for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, rigatoni, ziti, or even rotini work just as well. Just pick something sturdy that holds the sauce beautifully.

How spicy does this dish get with the red pepper flakes?

It’s a very gentle heat—more of a pleasant tingle than a burn. If you like things mild, feel free to skip them. Love a good kick? Add an extra pinch when garnishing!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef up to the cheese-melting step, then let it cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently and add a fresh sprinkle of mozzarella and parsley.

What can I substitute for the heavy cream?

If you need a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk work, though the sauce will be a little less rich. For dairy-free, try coconut cream—just know it’ll have a slightly different flavor.

How do I prevent the cheese from separating?

Add the cheeses slowly over low heat, stirring until each addition melts before adding more. Patience makes for the creamiest Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef every time!

Final Thoughts

If you’re longing for a meal that’s equal parts cozy, cheesy, and full of flavor, give Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef a try. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into something unforgettable. Grab your skillet, dig in, and don’t be surprised when it disappears in record time!

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