This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor! With creamy cheese, tender pasta, and savory beef, it’s pure comfort food.
What’s better than cheesy pasta? I love how easy this meal is to whip up. Toss everything together, let it get nice and bubbly, and you’ve got a dinner that everyone will enjoy! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: I love penne for its perfect bite and ability to hold sauce. If you have gluten-free needs, try using quinoa or chickpea pasta for a similar texture.
Ground Beef: While I prefer ground beef for its richness, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or plant-based ground meat!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives control over the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or vegan butter works great without compromising flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar offer a gooey texture. Want a twist? Use pepper jack for a spicy kick! For a vegan alternative, consider cashew cheese or nutritional yeast.
How Can I Make Sure My Ground Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef just right is key for taste and texture. Here’s how to do it well:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning the garlic. Add it first for flavor but keep an eye on it! You want fragrant, not burned.
- Brown the meat evenly. Break it up with a spoon and stir regularly for 6-8 minutes. Ensure there’s no pink left.
- Don’t forget to drain any excess fat. This step helps keep the dish creamy, not greasy!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheesy penne recipe takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta and beef, with another 5-10 minutes for simmering and melting the cheese. Quick, tasty, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; stir it around a bit to keep it from cooking too quickly!
3. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet with the garlic. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef apart as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Season the Beef:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Season the cooked beef with onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so the spices are well distributed.
5. Mix in Marinara (optional):
If you’d like to add a bit of tangy flavor, stir in the marinara sauce with the beef. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir everything together thoroughly for an even mix.
7. Melt the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low. Now, sprinkle the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the pasta and beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt, about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is nice and bubbly!
8. Final Touches:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your cheesy penne with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this delicious Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef hot. Enjoy your comforting meal with family or friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great, you can swap it for any pasta shape you like, such as rotini, fusilli, or even gluten-free options like rice or quinoa pasta.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover cheesy penne can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time! Cook the beef and mix it with the marinara sauce, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just cook the pasta and mix everything together, then proceed with melting the cheese.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a vegetarian alternative, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the protein you choose!
