There is simply something incredibly comforting and irresistible about this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe. Imagine tender penne pasta swimming in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce, perfectly seasoned ground beef nestled in every bite, and a luscious blanket of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese binding it all together. This dish combines hearty, savory flavors with the warm, gooey satisfaction of melted cheese, making it a true crowd-pleaser perfect for any night when you want a delicious homemade meal that feels like a big, delicious hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this recipe right is all about the balance of simple yet flavorful ingredients working in harmony—the pasta provides the perfect base texture, the ground beef brings in that savory punch, and the cheeses tie everything together in gooey perfection. Each element adds its own magic to the dish, so let’s dive into what you’ll need.
- 12 oz penne pasta: Choose penne for its perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and bits of beef.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides the hearty, meaty star of this dish with lovely richness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing garlic and adding a subtle fruity base flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with that irresistible warm aroma and depth.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing every flavor in the recipe.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the richness.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that marries everything beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of heat if you like a little fire in your cheese sauce.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously creamy base for the sauce.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth and supports the meaty flavors.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty zing that makes the sauce irresistibly savory.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy perfection topping the dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh burst of color and flavor as a bright garnish.
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions in generously salted boiling water. This step ensures your pasta is perfectly al dente, providing a firm yet tender bite that won’t get mushy when mixed with the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the beef and sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and add the minced garlic. Let it sauté just until fragrant, about one minute. This short cooking time is key because garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter, but when done right, it releases an irresistible aroma that forms the foundation of the sauce.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to your skillet with the garlic. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks, ensuring even browning. The caramelization of the beef bits adds incredible flavor depth, and if there’s excess fat, feel free to drain some off to keep the sauce from being greasy.
Step 4: Season the Beef
Now comes the fun part: seasoning. Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir well so every morsel of beef is coated with those herbs and spices. This step infuses the meat with vibrant, multi-layered flavor that’s essential for this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
Turn the heat down to medium, then pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together to combine the flavors and let the mixture simmer gently. The cream and broth blend to create a luscious, rich sauce that will perfectly coat your pasta and beef, delivering that indulgent experience you crave.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your drained penne pasta into the skillet, stirring thoroughly to make sure every piece gets enveloped in the creamy ground beef sauce. This step is where the magic happens, as the pasta absorbs some of the flavors, making every bite truly satisfying.
Step 7: Melt in Parmesan Cheese
Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. This addition not only thickens the sauce but adds that sharp, nutty flavor that makes the creaminess more complex and irresistible.
Step 8: Add Mozzarella and Melt
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, cover the skillet, and give it a few minutes to melt the cheese into a gooey, bubbly blanket. The mozzarella brings that necessary gooey stretch and creamy texture everyone loves in a cheesy pasta dish.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top to add a fresh, slightly peppery burst of flavor along with a pop of vivid green color that brightens the plate. Now your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe is ready to delight!
How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of freshly chopped parsley adds a great contrast in color and a mild herbal freshness that lifts the richness of the dish. For an extra touch, a little cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan can make serving feel special and restaurant-quality at home.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, such as a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, which balances the richness. Garlic bread or warm focaccia is also perfect to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce, making sure nothing goes to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the cheesy penne in individual mini skillets or ramekins topped with a sprinkle of mozzarella and parsley right before serving. You can also bake the dish uncovered for a few minutes to create a golden, bubbly crust that adds texture and a beautiful presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. The Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it easy to enjoy your favorite flavors again without extra prep time.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick or dry. Stir occasionally to keep the cheese melted and everything creamy and comforting.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of pasta instead of penne?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or even macaroni work wonderfully and will soak up that cheesy, garlicky goodness just as well.
Is it okay to substitute ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version. Keep in mind that these meats are leaner, so you might want to adjust the seasoning or add a little extra olive oil to maintain richness.
Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
You can, but heavy cream gives the sauce its signature richness and smooth texture. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or whole milk with a tablespoon of flour to help thicken, though the sauce won’t be quite as indulgent.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that warms the palate without overpowering the cheesy and buttery flavors. You can adjust the amount or omit them completely based on your spice tolerance.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Yes! You can prepare the components ahead, such as browning the beef and cooking the pasta, then assemble and melt the cheese just before serving. This makes it a fantastic dish for entertaining without last-minute stress.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe is your next go-to comfort food that brings warmth, ease, and crowd-pleasing flavors together in one irresistible dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s sure to become a kitchen favorite. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the plate!
