Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and always satisfying. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz penne pasta

For the Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup beef broth

Optional Topping:

• Shredded cheese for garnish

Instructions

1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the penne pasta as directed on the package.
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.

3: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns.
2. Once the beef is thoroughly cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary.

4: Prepare the Sauce

1. Stir in the Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes for added spice.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5: Combine and Finish

1. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce until every piece is well-coated.
2. Let the mixture cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the pasta is warmed through.

6: Serve

1. Serve the cheesy penne warm and garnish with shredded cheese, if desired. Enjoy!

Helpful Tips

Boil the penne until it’s al dente to ensure it maintains its texture when combined with the sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, so check for doneness a minute or two before the suggested cooking time.

Brown the Ground Beef Properly

For the best flavor, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and slightly caramelized.

Break the beef into small pieces while it cooks to ensure it browns evenly. Draining excess fat helps keep the dish balanced and not overly greasy.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh garlic and onions adds depth and enhances the flavor of the sauce. Avoid pre-minced garlic, as it may lack the bold aroma and taste that fresh cloves provide.

Balance the Seasoning

Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes gradually, tasting as you go.This approach lets you customize the flavors to suit your preference. Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice kick for spice lovers.

Prevent Sauce Separation

When adding the heavy cream, keep the heat at medium or low to prevent the sauce from separating. Stir continuously to create a smooth and creamy texture.

Serve Immediately

Cheesy penne is best enjoyed fresh and hot. If serving later, reheat gently with a splash of cream to revive the sauce’s consistency.

Helpful Tips

Cook Pasta to Al Dente

To ensure the best results, boil the penne until it’s al dente. This keeps the pasta firm and prevents it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce. Therefore, check for doneness a minute or two before the suggested cooking time on the package.

Brown the Ground Beef Properly

For a rich and savory flavor, make sure to cook the ground beef until it’s evenly browned and slightly caramelized. As it cooks, break the beef into small pieces for even browning. Afterward, drain any excess fat to keep the dish balanced and flavorful.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh garlic and onions greatly enhance the flavor of the sauce. While pre-minced garlic may be convenient, it often lacks the bold aroma of fresh cloves. Additionally, freshly chopped onions contribute to a more vibrant dish.

Balance the Seasoning

When adding Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, taste as you go to adjust the flavors. While red pepper flakes are optional, they add a delightful kick for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

Prevent Sauce Separation

To create a smooth and creamy sauce, add the heavy cream over medium or low heat. Meanwhile, stir continuously to prevent the sauce from separating or curdling.

Serve Immediately

Cheesy penne is most delicious when served fresh and warm. However, if reheating is necessary, gently warm it with a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

Variations

Swap the Protein

For a different twist, replace the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage. These options bring unique flavors while keeping the dish hearty. Additionally, shrimp can add a seafood flair that pairs well with the garlic butter sauce.

Try a Spicy Kick

To make the dish spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce. For even more heat, consider using spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

Add Vegetables

Incorporate additional vegetables to make the dish more colorful and nutritious. Spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms work wonderfully and blend well with the creamy sauce. Simply sauté them before adding them to the pasta.

Experiment with Cheese

While Parmesan and cheddar are classic choices, try using mozzarella, Gruyere, or a blend of cheeses for added richness. Melting cheese over the top and broiling for a few minutes creates a golden, bubbly finish.

Make It Vegetarian

For a meat-free version, skip the ground beef and load up on vegetables or plant-based ground meat alternatives. The creamy garlic butter sauce will still provide plenty of flavor.

Conservation and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the dish to cool completely before storing it. Once cooled, transfer the cheesy penne to an airtight container. Refrigerate it promptly to maintain freshness and flavor. When stored properly, this dish will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing for Later

If you want to save portions for a longer time, freezing is a great option. After the pasta cools, divide it into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the container to accommodate expansion. For optimal quality, freeze for up to 2 months. Freezing helps retain the flavors and texture when reheated properly.

Reheating Tips

When reheating leftovers, take care to preserve the creamy texture of the sauce. For stovetop reheating, place the pasta in a skillet or saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of cream, milk, or beef broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess, and stir frequently until heated through. For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

Avoid Overheating

Reheating at high temperatures may cause the sauce to separate or the pasta to become dry. Keeping the heat gentle ensures the dish maintains its original creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a Fresh Salad

A crisp salad is an excellent way to balance the richness of this cheesy pasta dish. A simple green salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and complements the savory flavors. A Caesar salad with crunchy croutons is another great option for a more indulgent pairing.

Add a Side of Bread

Serve this dish with warm garlic bread, buttery dinner rolls, or a crusty baguette. These sides are perfect for scooping up every bit of the creamy garlic butter sauce, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Include Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini make a nutritious and colorful addition. Their slightly caramelized flavors contrast well with the creamy pasta, creating a balanced and wholesome meal.

Family-Friendly Additions

If you’re serving a larger group, consider pairing this dish with mashed potatoes or steamed green beans for variety. These simple sides add heartiness without overpowering the main dish.

Great for Special Occasions

Cheesy penne works wonderfully as a centerpiece for casual dinners or festive gatherings. Arrange it on a large platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or shredded cheese for an eye-catching presentation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef works well with other types of pasta, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or bowtie pasta. Choose a shape that holds the sauce well to enjoy every bite fully.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To lighten Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, substitute ground beef with leaner options like ground turkey or chicken. Additionally, using low-fat cream or a mixture of milk and cornstarch instead of heavy cream reduces calories while maintaining a creamy texture.

Can I prepare Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. Cook the pasta and prepare the sauce in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, let the dish cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?

Absolutely! To make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef vegetarian, skip the beef and use plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or mushrooms for a delicious option.

Conclusion

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the savory goodness of ground beef. The tender penne pasta, paired with the fragrant garlic butter, creates a meal that is both comforting and satisfying.

This recipe’s versatility allows you to customize it with different proteins, vegetables, or cheeses, making it adaptable for any taste or occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

With proper storage and reheating techniques, leftovers can be enjoyed without losing their creamy texture and robust flavors. Serve it alongside fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or warm bread for a complete and well-rounded meal.

Try this easy and delicious recipe today and create a dish that will quickly become a family favorite! Its simplicity and bold flavors make it a go-to for any home cook.