Irresistible Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

If you’re looking for a rich, flavorful, and filling dinner that’s perfect for the whole family, Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is the ultimate choice. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish features perfectly cooked penne pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special family dinner, this dish will become a go-to in your recipe collection.

The best part? It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make this cheesy penne dish that’s guaranteed to be a hit with your loved ones.

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Why Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Is the Perfect Family Dinner

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is the perfect family dinner because it combines comfort and flavor in every bite. The creamy sauce, loaded with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, complements the ground beef beautifully, while the penne pasta holds the sauce perfectly. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and full of rich flavors, making it ideal for dinner after a busy day.

In addition to being flavorful, this recipe is also customizable. You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken, or adjust the seasoning to your taste. It’s versatile, simple to make, and perfect for serving a crowd.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

To make cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• Salt (for the pasta water)

For the Beef and Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
• 1 lb ground beef
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create a hearty, cheesy dish with a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Making cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef is easy and comes together in just a few simple steps. Follow along to create this comforting dinner:

1. Cook the Penne Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 9-11 minutes) or until al dente. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, but be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Break up the beef as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

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3. Sauté the Garlic and Onion:

In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce:

Add the heavy cream and beef broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and continue stirring until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.

5. Combine the Beef and Pasta:

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the creamy sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Transfer the cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef to serving dishes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy pasta dish!

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How to Customize Your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

This recipe is versatile, and there are plenty of ways to customize it:

• Add vegetables: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
• Use a different protein: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Cheese variations: Try using cheddar, Gouda, or Fontina for a different cheesy flavor.

For more easy dinner ideas, try making creamy garlic chicken pasta or spaghetti with meat sauce for a quick and delicious meal.

Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a meal on its own, but here are a few great sides to serve with it:

• Garlic bread: Serve with freshly baked garlic bread or breadsticks to sop up the delicious sauce.
• Side salad: Pair with a fresh side salad, such as Caesar salad or a Greek salad, for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Steamed veggies: Add a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus for added nutrition.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

To ensure your cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef turns out perfectly, here are a few tips:

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Be sure to cook the penne al dente, as it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
• Avoid overcooking the beef: Brown the beef until fully cooked, but don’t overcook it, as it can become dry.
• Adjust the sauce consistency: If the sauce gets too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.

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FAQs About Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything up to the point of adding the pasta. Simply refrigerate the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and heat before serving.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can use dairy-free cream, cheese alternatives, and butter substitutes to make this dish dairy-free.

Final Thoughts on Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a rich, creamy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. The combination of tender penne pasta, savory ground beef, and a luscious cheese sauce is a surefire winner. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Give this easy dinner recipe a try today and enjoy a satisfying, flavorful meal. Don’t forget to share, save, and subscribe for more quick dinner ideas and tasty pasta dishes!

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