This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a comforting and indulgent meal that combines the rich flavors of savory ground beef, garlic butter, and melted cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, offering a satisfying dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re craving a hearty weeknight meal or planning for a cozy gathering, this recipe is a hit!
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb ground beef
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in the oregano, basil, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Then, add the heavy cream and mix well. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef and garlic butter sauce.
Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, allowing the cheeses to melt and coat the pasta evenly.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Variations
If you’re looking to tweak this recipe, here are a few variations to try:
Add veggies: You can easily incorporate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the mix for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different pasta: Penne isn’t your only option—swap it out for rigatoni, ziti, or even fusilli for a new twist on the dish.
Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for some extra kick.
Swap proteins: Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of the beef for a leaner alternative.
Go dairy-free: For a dairy-free version, try using plant-based cheese alternatives and a non-dairy cream.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring back its creamy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
FAQs
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce. You can also mix in some diced jalapeños when cooking the ground beef for an extra spicy kick.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. After cooking, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What can I serve with cheesy penne and garlic butter ground beef?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a light soup if you’re looking for a full meal.
Can I make this dish with ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. Just be aware that it might have a slightly lighter flavor, but it will still be delicious when combined with the garlic butter sauce and cheese.
Can I freeze this cheesy penne?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the oven.
Conclusion
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a perfect combination of creamy, savory, and cheesy goodness. This meal is ideal for any night of the week when you’re craving something comforting and filling. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a dish I always return to for family dinners or when I need something quick and satisfying. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household, too!
Recipe:
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Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a comforting, indulgent meal that combines savory ground beef, garlic butter, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb ground beef
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the oregano, basil, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Then, add the heavy cream and mix well. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef and garlic butter sauce.
- Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, allowing the cheeses to melt and coat the pasta evenly.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
If you want to add veggies, try spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
You can use different pasta types like rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli for a new twist on the dish.
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.
Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef for a leaner option.
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheese alternatives and non-dairy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
