Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish combines tender penne pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce, all smothered in gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into this creamy, flavorful delight!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite add-ins or spices.
- Comfort Food Perfection: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (use lean or regular, depending on preference).
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder for convenience).
- Butter: 1/2 cup (unsalted or salted, depending on taste).
- Penne Pasta: 1 lb (or substitute with your favorite pasta shape).
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (for that gooey, melty texture).
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated (for a salty, nutty finish).
- Salt & Pepper: To taste.
- Optional Add-Ins:
- Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Spices: Red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, or paprika.
- Cream: 1/4 cup heavy cream for extra richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil.
- Cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Butter
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the butter until melted and combined with the beef.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 5: Add Cheese
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until fully melted and creamy.
- Sprinkle in half of the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well.
Step 6: Season and Serve
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese and optional fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Penne
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: It melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Add Veggies: Boost nutrition by stirring in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Double the Recipe: Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat:
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli work well too.
2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter alternatives.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth.
4. Can I add cream to the sauce?
Yes, adding 1/4 cup of heavy cream will make the sauce extra rich and creamy.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of milk to refresh the sauce.
6. What can I serve with this dish?
Pair with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Veggies: Add a healthy touch with roasted broccoli or zucchini.
- Wine Pairing: Serve with a glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio for a cozy dinner.
