If you’re searching for a show-stopping comfort dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple, look no further than Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. Imagine tender penne pasta tangled up in a luscious garlic butter sauce, studded with juicy morsels of ground beef, and wrapped up in gooey layers of mozzarella and parmesan. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, this fuss-free meal is destined to become your new favorite. Every forkful feels like a warm hug, making it the perfect dish to share with loved ones around your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef lies in taking staple ingredients and coaxing out their best flavors. Each element in this recipe serves a purpose—from building up umami and depth to ensuring every bite is loaded with irresistible cheesiness.
- Penne Pasta (12 oz): A sturdy pasta shape that soaks up all that glorious sauce without falling apart.
- Ground Beef (1 lb): Provides richness and heartiness—you can’t have this comfort classic without it.
- Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp): The base for our garlic butter sauce, lending silkiness and depth.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with that craveable, aromatic kick.
- Yellow Onion (1 small, diced): Adds sweetness and flavor complexity to the skillet.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): Brings a herby Mediterranean flair.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 tsp, optional): For those who like a little heat in their cheesy pasta.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for drawing out big flavors from the simple ingredients.
- Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): Balances and highlights the savory notes.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully for that stringy, ooey-gooey texture.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup): Adds sharpness and that classic cheesy finish.
- Beef Broth (1/2 cup): A splash brings depth and keeps everything juicy.
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Makes the sauce extra creamy and indulgent.
- Fresh Parsley (1 tbsp, chopped, for garnish): Sprinkles brightness and a pop of color over the top.
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente. Drain well and set aside—this ensures your pasta has just the right amount of bite and won’t become mushy when tossed in the sauce.
Step 2: Build the Garlic Butter Base
While the pasta’s cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your minced garlic and diced onion, and sauté everything for 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells heavenly and the onion is soft and translucent.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef right into that fragrant mixture. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks, making sure you get lots of lovely browned bits for even more flavor. Once the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink, you can drain off any excess fat if needed.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Time to season things up! Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine, then pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This step thickens the sauce ever so slightly and brings all the flavors together in cheesy harmony.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese and Finish
Now comes the best part—stir in your cooked pasta, making sure every piece is coated with that luxurious sauce. Reduce the heat and fold in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until everything is melted, creamy, and perfectly unified. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that final burst of color and freshness before digging in!
How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Garnishes
Finish your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef with a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley and a final dusting of extra Parmesan cheese. For a pretty touch, add a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper or a sprinkle of red chili flakes if you like things zippy.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta loves simple sides that let it shine. Pair with a light green salad, crisp garlic bread, or roasted vegetables—you’ll have a complete meal that balances the creamy, cheesy goodness with freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make dinner feel special, try serving Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef in individual oven-safe dishes and broil the tops for a bubbly cheese crust. Alternatively, ladle it straight into pasta bowls and top with more fresh herbs for a rustic, homey touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Left with extras? Lucky you! Store any leftover Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days, maintaining its creamy, cheesy charm.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze portions in a tightly sealed container. Let the pasta cool completely before freezing, and try to use within one to two months for best flavor and texture. It’s a lifesaver on busy days!
Reheating
To reheat, pop leftovers in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to keep things creamy, or reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring until piping hot. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator for even warming.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully for a lighter version, and you can even use plant-based ground “beef” for a vegetarian twist without sacrificing the hearty feel of the original Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.
What other cheeses can I use in this dish?
Feel free to get creative—try adding some provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses for different layers of flavor and meltiness. The dish is flexible so you can tailor it to your cheese-loving heart’s desire.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely. Simply up the amount of crushed red pepper flakes, or serve with hot sauce on the side for those who want extra heat. You could even mix in diced jalapeño for a fiery kick.
Can I prep Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce and beef mixture a day ahead, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve. This is perfect for easy entertaining or busy weeknights.
What’s the best way to make this dish look appetizing at a dinner party?
A dramatic finish always wins—broil the pasta in a casserole dish until the top is golden and bubbling, then sprinkle generously with parsley. Serve in individual bowls with extra cheese on the side for guests to add as they please.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got all the secrets, it’s time to treat yourself and your loved ones to a cozy bowl of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. It’s easy, deeply satisfying, and guaranteed to gather everyone around the table with smiles. Go on—make it tonight, and don’t forget to savor every cheesy, garlicky forkful!
