This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a tasty delight! With creamy cheese, tender pasta, and flavorful beef, it’s comfort food at its best.
Who knew garlic butter could make everything better? I love serving this dish with a side salad for a fun dinner that feels special but is super easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is great for holding onto the sauce. If you’re short on penne, rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli will work well too!
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef to keep things a bit healthier. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer, or even a plant-based meat for a vegetarian version!
Cheddar and Mozzarella: Cheddar adds sharpness while mozzarella brings creaminess. If you want a twist, try using pepper jack for some heat or Gouda for a smoky flavor. Vegan cheese also works if you’re dairy-free.
Heavy Cream or Milk: Heavy cream makes it rich, but if you’re looking to cut calories, whole milk is a good alternative. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or almond milk, but be aware of the flavor differences.
How Do I Ensure My Ground Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground beef can be tricky if you’re unsure about doneness. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high; this helps get a nice sear on the meat.
- Once you add the beef, resist the urge to stir it too much initially. Let it brown well for great flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; it should read 160°F when fully cooked.
Don’t forget to drain any excess fat after cooking for a lighter dish. Enjoy cooking, and remember, practice makes perfect!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Meat:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
Flavor Boosters:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cheesy Goodness:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this cheesy dish is about 30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing and cooking the pasta and beef, and another 20 minutes combining everything for a deliciously gooey result!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Penne:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute. You want that lovely garlic smell filling your kitchen!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, raise the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. You should cook it for about 6-8 minutes or until it’s browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil while it’s cooking for extra flavor.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Once the beef is browned, lower the heat back to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan and let it melt. Then, pour in your heavy cream (or milk) and stir everything well to combine it with the beef mixture.
5. Combine with Pasta and Cheese:
Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic butter beef sauce until it’s well coated. Now, sprinkle in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and create a creamy coating over the pasta.
6. Final Touches:
Give it a taste, and adjust your seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Once it’s just right, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is ready! Serve it hot and enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
FAQ for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free penne for this recipe. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary, so check the package instructions for best results!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the creamy consistency if needed!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and cook the pasta a day ahead. Just combine them when you’re ready to eat, reheat, and mix in the cheese to get that gooey, melty texture!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to mix in some veggies! Spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini work great. Sauté them along with the onions for added flavor and nutrition!
