Name: Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Penne Pasta (or substitute with rigatoni or fusilli); 1 lb Ground Beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (or use vegetable oil); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tsp Salt (to taste); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground); 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning (or substitute with oregano, basil, or thyme); 1/4 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional); 1 cup Heavy Cream (or half-and-half); 1 cup Beef Broth (or vegetable broth); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded); 2 tbsp Parsley (fresh, chopped)

As the aroma of garlic butter wafts through my kitchen, I’m transported to those cozy family dinners where laughter and love fill the air. This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe is my go-to comfort food, turning even the most ordinary weeknight into a delightful feast. Not only is it beginner-friendly, but its versatility makes it perfect for any dietary preference—you can easily swap in your favorite pasta or try a leaner meat option. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a warm hug on a plate, this dish is sure to impress. Are you ready to dive into a creamy, cheesy indulgence that will leave everyone asking for seconds?

Why is Cheesy Penne So Irresistible?

Comforting Warmth: This dish is like a cozy hug for your taste buds, combining rich flavors with creamy textures that satisfy any craving.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice even for novice cooks.

Endless Customization: Feel free to swap out pasta types or meats to suit your dietary needs—try it with gluten-free pasta or ground turkey for lighter options!

Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the gooey cheese and savory beef, guaranteeing that your dinner table will be filled with happy faces.

Perfect Pairing: Serve alongside a crisp salad or some warm garlic bread from my Chicken Biscuits Butter recipe to elevate the meal.

With this delightful dish, you’ll have a winner that everyone will rave about!

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Ingredients

• Get ready for a deliciously cheesy experience!

For the Pasta

Penne Pasta – The main carbohydrate base; swap with rigatoni or fusilli for a twist.

For the Meat Sauce

Ground Beef – Provides rich flavor; substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Olive Oil – Used for sautéing garlic; vegetable oil works as a good substitute.
Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic depth; fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
Salt – Enhances overall taste; adjust to personal preference.
Black Pepper – Introduces warmth; freshly ground offers superior flavor.
Italian Seasoning – Contributes a herby aroma; can be replaced with oregano, basil, and thyme.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adds a spicy kick; omit for a milder dish.

For the Creamy Sauce

Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious sauce; half-and-half can lighten it up.
Beef Broth – Adds depth; vegetable broth can make it lighter.

For the Cheesy Topping

Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) – Melts beautifully for nuttiness; pecorino offers a sharper taste.
Mozzarella Cheese (shredded) – Gives a gooey finish; try cheddar for a different flavor.

For Garnish

Parsley (fresh, chopped) – Adds color and freshness; basil can be an excellent substitute.

This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience waiting to happen!

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain the pasta and let it sit in the colander to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this could impart a bitter taste to your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.

Step 3: Brown the Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nicely browned and no pink remains. This step infuses your dish with a savory richness that complements the garlic.

Step 4: Season the Beef
Sprinkle the browned beef with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings for about 1-2 minutes. This seasoning blend will elevate the flavors in your Cheesy Penne, creating a deliciously savory foundation.

Step 5: Create the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and bubbles gently. The creamy consistency is key for coating the penne in your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained penne to the skillet, using tongs to toss and coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Continue to heat for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is warmed through. The pasta should absorb the luscious sauce beautifully, resulting in a comforting dish.

Step 7: Add Parmesan
Gradually mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce, enhancing its thickness and flavor. This step is crucial for that delightful cheesy element that makes this Cheesy Penne irresistible and comforting.

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta mixture and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook on low heat for about 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This gooey layer adds a delicious finish to your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Cheesy Penne hot, allowing everyone to enjoy the creamy, cheesy indulgence that will surely warm any dinner table.

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Variations

Feel free to add your own twist to this delightful dish, transforming it into something uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular penne with gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Lean & Green: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, keeping the dish lower in fat and calories while still being flavorful. A leaner meat will still mix beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Vegetarian Delight: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat for a hearty vegetarian option. Change the flavors by adding seasonal veggies for a fresh touch, making this dish packed with nutrients!
Extra Cheese: Add a mix of your favorite cheeses, like gouda or pepper jack, for a personalized cheesy flavor twist, elevating the creamy goodness to the next level. The more, the merrier—everyone loves cheese!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat in your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. This twist will please spice lovers and add a new dimension to the flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh spinach or kale at the end of cooking for that wonderful green color and nutritional boost. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also elevate the dish with aromatic notes.
Sauce Upgrade: For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic. Let it cook down before adding the cream for a sophisticated alternative.

To enhance your meal, consider pairing this cheesy delight with a crisp salad or some warm garlic bread from my Chicken Biscuits Butter recipe. Enjoy the endless possibilities!

What to Serve with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Transform your family dinner into a delightful feast by pairing this creamy comfort dish with the perfect accompaniments!

Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s the perfect vessel to savor every last bite of your sauce. The warmth of garlic complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Crisp Green Salad: Fresh greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette bring a refreshing contrast to the cheesy heaviness, balancing out the meal.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant broccoli adds a nutritious crunch that interplays well with the creamy textures of the penne. It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies!
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add sweetness and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Merlot or Chianti, pairs wonderfully, enhancing the savory notes of the ground beef and garlic.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this light and airy treat provides the ideal sweet finish to your comforting dinner without feeling too heavy.

With these delightful pairings, your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is sure to shine at the dinner table!

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Penne

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy texture, add a splash of milk or cream when reheating.

Freezer: Freeze Cheesy Penne in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Make sure to seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This helps to preserve the flavor and texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.

Expert Tips for Cheesy Penne

Don’t Burn the Garlic: Sauté garlic over medium heat and watch it closely; burnt garlic imparts a bitter flavor to your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.
Pasta Perfection: Cook your pasta just until al dente for that perfect bite; overcooked pasta can turn mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce while cooking to adjust seasonings. Adding a pinch more salt or herb can elevate the overall flavor of your dish.
Choose Your Cheese Wisely: Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and flavor; pre-grated versions often contain anti-caking agents that may hinder the creamy texture.
Keep It Creamy: If leftovers are stored, reheat with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the original creamy consistency of your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.
Variations are Key: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pasta shapes or lean meats; this dish is versatile and caters to various dietary preferences!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meat sauce (ground beef, garlic, and seasonings) up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain its delicious quality, ensure it cools completely before sealing. The cooked penne can also be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and tossed with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce while you warm the pasta before combining them. This way, you’ll enjoy the same creamy, cheesy goodness with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing your penne, look for the ones that are firm and have no visible damage. A good quality pasta will have a slight sheen and a rough texture that helps the sauce cling better. For a delightful twist, you can replace penne with rigatoni or fusilli!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
For optimal freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the creamy texture intact when reheating, consider adding a splash of milk or cream; this helps restore its deliciousness!

Can I freeze Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze this dish in a suitable, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To do this, allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it tightly to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce has thickened too much, don’t worry! You can easily remedy this. Start by adding a splash of beef broth or cream gradually while stirring over low heat until you achieve your desired consistency. A little bit of patience will ensure your Cheesy Penne stays creamy and delightful!

Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Very! This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef can easily adapt to various dietary considerations. For gluten-free options, simply replace the penne with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Looking for lower-calorie options? Ground turkey or chicken can replace the ground beef for a lighter take on this comforting dish.

Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely, you can prepare the meat sauce ahead of time! Simply follow the recipe up to the point of combining the pasta and sauce, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, warm them each up and combine just before enjoying to keep the pasta from absorbing too much sauce.