When you’re looking for a comforting meal that brings together rich flavors and a hearty texture, Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef stands out as an excellent choice. This dish combines perfectly cooked penne pasta, tender ground beef, and a luscious, creamy sauce that is further elevated by the nutty notes of garlic and the savory punch of cheese. Whether you’re feeding a family or want to impress dinner guests, this recipe is both satisfying and straightforward to whip up.
Why We Love This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe
The beauty of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef lies not only in its delightful taste but also in its simplicity. You can prepare this dish in under an hour, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. The flavors meld beautifully as the dish simmers, creating a rich and creamy sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. Plus, who can resist a dish laden with cheese? The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that you and your loved ones will savor. This recipe offers flexibility as well, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or extra spices for that personal touch.
Ingredients about Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
To make this delightful dish, having the right ingredients on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Directions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process.
- Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure you use a large pot of salted boiling water for the best flavor. Cook the pasta until it reaches an al dente texture, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain it thoroughly and set it aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, take out a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it becomes fragrant—be cautious not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
- Next, add the 1 lb of ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Cook until it’s nicely browned, and if there’s any significant amount of excess fat, carefully drain it.
- Season the browned beef by adding 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and the optional 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
- Reduce the heat to low and gently pour in 1 cup of beef broth along with 2 cups of heavy cream. Stir the mixture well, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes. This simmering process helps to create a beautiful sauce.
- With the creamy mixture ready, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce. This cheesy element is what makes the dish irresistibly creamy and satisfying.
- As a finishing touch, sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow it to sit for a few minutes. The steam will help the mozzarella melt into a gooey layer over the pasta.
- Before serving, garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that beautifully contrasts the richness of the cheese. Now your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
When it comes to serving your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, keep it simple yet elegant. Serve the dish directly from the skillet for a warm and inviting presentation. Use a large spoon to scoop generous portions onto individual plates. You might consider adding a light side salad or garlic bread to complement the meal, giving a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the pasta. A fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or a simple Caesar can be a fantastic addition. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can bring an extra kick to the dish for those who enjoy their food with a bit of heat.
Expert Tips: Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Maximize the success of your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef by keeping these expert tips in mind:
- Choice of Ground Beef: You may use lean ground beef to cut down the fat content, but for added flavor, a fattier blend often yields a more flavorful dish.
- Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic instead of pre-minced to ensure the best flavor. Fresh herbs can also elevate the dish’s taste profile.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Letting the sauce simmer helps all the flavors meld beautifully. Quality takes time, so don’t skip this step!
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar or provolone for a unique twist on the classic flavors.
- Add Vegetables: For an added burst of nutrition and flavor, consider incorporating some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the mix.
How to Store Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
If you have some leftovers (though it might be hard to resist finishing the entire dish!), storing them properly will keep them fresh. Allow the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep the dish in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. It can last for up to three months in the freezer when sealed in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to revive the creaminess.
Variation of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
One of the best things about Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is its versatility! You can easily customize the recipe to match your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. For instance, if you’re a fan of vegetables, consider adding cooked broccoli or zucchini for a pop of color and nutrition.
If you love spice, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while sautéing the garlic. Or, for a different flavor profile, try different herbs—basil or rosemary pair beautifully with the other ingredients. You can also switch the type of meat; lean ground turkey or chicken can be fantastic substitutes that offer a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
For a vegetarian version, swap out the ground beef for a plant-based alternative, using mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas as a hearty base. The beauty of this dish is that it can become whatever you need it to be!
FAQ Section
What makes Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef a go-to recipe?
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a go-to recipe for many because it delivers delicious comfort food in an easy-to-make format. With a rich, creamy sauce and cheesy goodness, it satisfies both cravings and hunger.
How can I enhance the flavor profile of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
You can enhance the flavor by using fresh herbs, experimenting with different cheese types, and even adding vegetables for more depth and nutrition.
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for capturing the sauce, any short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli will work beautifully too.
Is it possible to make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. Just store it properly in the refrigerator or freezer and reheat when necessary.
What are some good side dishes to pair with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Consider serving it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. These options can balance the richness of the dish wonderfully.
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 12 oz penne pasta Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired.
- 1 lb ground beef Lean ground beef can be used to reduce fat.
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is recommended.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Optional for added spice.
- 2 cups heavy cream For a lighter option, half-and-half can be used.
- 1 cup beef broth Can use low-sodium broth.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
Preparing the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, making sure it does not burn.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Season the beef with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in beef broth and heavy cream. Allow to simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until it is melted and the sauce thickens.
- Top the pasta with shredded mozzarella, cover with a lid, and let sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve directly from the skillet.
- Consider serving with a side salad or garlic bread.
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