Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy bowl of pasta to bring comfort to your table, and this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe is a guaranteed winner. Imagine tender penne pasta coated in a velvety, garlic-infused cheese sauce, perfectly paired with savory ground beef. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or whipping up a quick weeknight meal, this dish is your go-to.

Not only is it bursting with rich, creamy flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With just 30 minutes of your time, a handful of budget-friendly ingredients, and a single skillet, you’ll create a meal that’s bound to impress. And the best part? It’s a crowd-pleaser, appealing to kids, adults, and even picky eaters alike. So, let’s dive in and make dinner unforgettable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this recipe takes just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Simple staples like pasta, ground beef, and cheese make this meal affordable and accessible.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy, cheesy flavors are universally loved, ensuring happy faces at the dinner table.

Suitable For

• Weeknight Dinners: Ideal for when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.
• Potlucks or Gatherings: A sharable dish that’s sure to disappear quickly.
• Beginners in the Kitchen: Straightforward steps make it a no-stress recipe for anyone learning to cook.

Ingredients for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Core Ingredients

To create this comforting dish, you’ll need a few key players:

• Penne Pasta (12 oz): The perfect shape for soaking up that creamy sauce.
• Ground Beef (1 lb): Adds a hearty, savory element to the dish.
• Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons): Forms the base for the rich garlic butter sauce.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates the luscious, creamy sauce.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups) & Grated Parmesan (½ cup): Combine for a melty, cheesy finish.
• Seasonings: Paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper enhance the flavor.
• Fresh Parsley (¼ cup, chopped): A bright garnish that adds a pop of color.

Substitutions and Tips

• Protein Swap: Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully as a leaner alternative to beef.
• Plant-Based Option: Use plant-based ground beef and dairy-free cream and cheese for a vegan twist.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free penne for those with dietary restrictions.
• Pro Tip: For the freshest flavor, opt for high-quality cheeses and freshly minced garlic.

Best Cheeses for Creamy Sauce

The magic of this recipe lies in the cheese. Here’s why cheddar and Parmesan are the ultimate pairing:

• Cheddar Cheese: Its sharp, melty goodness creates the ultimate gooey sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth and a nutty, savory edge to the flavor profile.

Want to switch it up? Mozzarella brings a stretchy texture, while Gouda offers a smoky richness. Feel free to experiment to suit your taste buds!

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Must-Have Tools

• Large Skillet: For cooking the beef and building the sauce.
• Pasta Pot: To boil the penne to perfection.
• Cheese Grater: Essential for freshly shredded cheese.

Nice-to-Have Tools

• Garlic Press: Makes mincing garlic quick and easy.
• Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce and scraping every last bit.

This warm and inviting recipe is not only delicious but also simple to execute. Let’s get cooking! In the next section, we’ll walk step-by-step through the process to ensure you master this crowd-pleaser. Stay tuned!

How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a creamy, cheesy pasta dish ready in no time. Let’s dive into the details to make this delicious recipe absolutely foolproof!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—that’s Italian for “to the tooth,” meaning it should have a little bite to it. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy in the sauce, so keep an eye on the clock.

Once it’s done, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining. This reserved water is liquid gold—it can help loosen the sauce later if needed. Drain the pasta and set it aside while we get started on the star of the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula and cook until it’s fully browned and no pink remains. This usually takes about 5–7 minutes.

Once cooked, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish light. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the beef, stirring to distribute the seasoning evenly. Set the beef aside for now—we’ll reunite it with the sauce soon!

Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Base

Using the same skillet (why wash more dishes?), melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. As soon as the butter is melted and bubbling, toss in the minced garlic. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic—this step is crucial for building the rich, savory flavor base.

Step 4: Season and Combine

Now it’s time to layer on the flavor. Add onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together, letting the spices bloom in the buttery garlic mixture. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and give it a good toss to coat the meat in all that seasoned goodness.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring gently to combine it with the garlic butter and beef. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently. Now comes the best part: cheese! Gradually add 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan, stirring constantly until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.

If the sauce feels too thick, here’s where your reserved pasta water comes in handy. Add a splash at a time, stirring until you reach the perfect consistency—rich and creamy, but not overly heavy.

Step 6: Toss the Pasta and Serve

Finally, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, making sure each piece of pasta is generously coated in the cheesy sauce. Remove the skillet from the heat and give it one last stir.

For the finishing touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top—it’s not just for garnish; it adds a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the dish.

Serve immediately while it’s piping hot. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress.

With just these six easy steps, you’ve created a comforting, flavorful masterpiece. It’s hearty, cheesy, and guaranteed to disappear fast—don’t be surprised if there are no leftovers!

Tips for Success

Making Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is straightforward, but these tips will ensure it turns out perfectly every time:

1. Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Aim for al dente—pasta that’s firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta will lose its texture when tossed in the sauce.
2. Don’t Burn the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it while sautéing. Burnt garlic can add bitterness to the dish. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
3. Achieve a Smooth Sauce: To prevent clumping, add the cheese gradually to the simmering cream and stir constantly. If the sauce is too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will smooth it out while keeping it creamy.
4. Season as You Go: Layering seasonings at each step builds deeper flavor.
5. Fresh Garnish is Key: The parsley adds brightness to balance the richness—don’t skip it!

How to Store Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

At Room Temperature

After serving, allow leftovers to cool for no more than 2 hours at room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container to prevent drying out or contamination.

In the Refrigerator

Store the dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or water to maintain the creamy consistency and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezing Tips

This dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop with a bit of added cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! Rotini, fusilli, or rigatoni are great substitutes. These shapes hold the sauce just as well, making each bite flavorful.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead and store it separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, toss with freshly cooked pasta, and enjoy.

How can I make it healthier?

For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk. Use whole-grain pasta, lean ground turkey, and reduce the cheese slightly for a healthier twist.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, you might enjoy these dishes on RecipesEasys.com:

• Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Butter Beef: Another creamy and cheesy pasta dish perfect for weeknights.
• Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne: A healthier, veggie-packed alternative.
• Golden Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Parmesan Pasta: A garlicky, cheesy delight for chicken lovers.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipes: A similar pasta dish with a Parmesan-forward twist.

These links will guide readers to explore more delightful comfort food recipes!

Conclusion

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Its quick prep time and easy steps make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.

We’d love to hear how your version turned out! Feel free to leave a comment, share your tips, or even experiment with your own twists on this recipe. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy bite!

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