Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Experience the rich, savory flavors of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. This delicious pasta dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply a cozy night in. The combination of creamy sauce and tender ground beef delivers a comforting meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe can be made in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The garlic butter and seasoned beef create a mouthwatering taste that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Cheesy Goodness: With both Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, each bite is rich and satisfying.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with this one-pot meal that minimizes dishes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything at hand will help you whip up this delicious dish effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the penne pasta evenly in boiling water.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef, allowing ample space to mix in the other ingredients.
• Spatula: Helps break apart the meat while cooking and ensures even mixing of all components.

Ingredients

Experience the rich, savory flavors of this cheesy penne pasta dish, perfectly combined with juicy ground beef and a hint of garlic. It’s a comforting bowl of satisfaction!

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta

For the Beef Mixture

• 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)

For the Sauce

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup beef broth

For Cheese Topping

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 4: Season Beef

Season the cooked beef with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.

Step 5: Create Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.

Step 6: Combine Pasta

Add the drained penne pasta into the sauce, stirring to ensure all the pasta is coated evenly.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy and thickened.

Step 8: Melt Mozzarella

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.

Step 9: Serve

Garnish the dish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef!

How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Serving Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef can elevate your meal experience. It’s not just a dish; it’s an invitation to enjoy rich flavors and comforting textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will complement your pasta perfectly.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed in a light vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and topped with grated Parmesan.

Add Bread for Dipping

• Garlic Bread: Warm and crispy garlic breadsticks or slices that pair well with the creamy sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft and flavorful focaccia bread, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

Include a Vegetable Side

• Roasted Broccoli: Crispy roasted broccoli drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic provides a nutritious balance to the dish.

How to Perfect Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Perfecting your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to suit your taste.
• Cook pasta al dente: This keeps the penne firm while cooking in the sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.
• Use fresh cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a richer flavor compared to pre-packaged options.
• Stir gently: When mixing pasta with the sauce, use gentle folding motions to avoid breaking the penne.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Complementing your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is easy when you choose the right side dishes. Here are some great options that enhance your meal.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted until golden; drizzle with olive oil for extra flavor.
2. Bruschetta: Tasty toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and a hint of garlic makes for a refreshing side.
3. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles add freshness and are a low-carb option alongside hearty pasta.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy dressing brings vibrant color to your plate.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, vegetables, and herbs can be baked as a savory side dish.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn seasoned simply adds sweetness that balances the savory beef dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the ground beef properly can lead to bland pasta. Make sure to use salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for a flavor boost.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the penne too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions and aim for al dente.

• Not draining excess fat: Leaving excess fat from the ground beef can make the dish greasy. Drain it off before adding other ingredients.

• Adding cheese too early: If you add cheese too soon, it may not melt properly. Wait until the sauce is thickened before stirring in your Parmesan cheese.

• Ignoring the garnish: Skipping fresh parsley can reduce visual appeal and freshness. A sprinkle of chopped parsley enhances flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It is best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef:

Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. It will still be delicious and slightly lighter.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor.

Can I prepare this cheesy penne ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy it.

What side dishes go well with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?

Consider pairing it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that complements the cheesy goodness of the pasta.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is not only comforting but also versatile. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or at a gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste!