Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Delight

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. Picture this: rich, creamy cheese melting into perfectly cooked penne, mingling with the savory aroma of garlic butter and beautifully browned ground beef. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, best enjoyed after a long day or during cozy family gatherings.

This dish isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s also about creating memories. I remember the first time I whipped up this recipe for my friends during a movie night. The laughter, the cheesy goodness, and the way everyone went back for seconds—it was a culinary success! Perfect for any occasion, this recipe guarantees an explosion of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

I still chuckle at how my friend nearly dropped his plate in excitement—let’s just say he wasn’t shy about his love for cheesy pasta!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Penne Pasta: Opt for whole wheat or regular penne based on your preference; both hold sauce well.

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty without excessive grease.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a punch of flavor; avoid pre-minced for the best taste.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of your dish.

• Cheddar Cheese: Shred your own cheese for better melting; its sharpness elevates the flavor profile.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan provides an extra layer of richness and depth.

• Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess; substitute with half-and-half if you’re looking to lighten things up.

• Salt and Pepper: Always season to taste; these staples enhance all flavors in your dish.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and familiarity—perfect for Italian-inspired dishes.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Penne Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes.

Sauté the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and add ground beef. Cook until it’s browned and crumbles easily, which takes about 5-7 minutes.

Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in minced garlic along with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Allow them to cook until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes—before moving on.

Create the Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with beef. Stir in cheddar cheese gradually until fully melted and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.

Combine Everything Together: Add drained penne pasta into the skillet with the sauce mixture. Toss everything gently until coated evenly; let it simmer for another minute.

Finish with Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan on top before serving. Let it melt slightly while you prepare to dig in—trust me, this step is essential!

Now you have Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef ready to enjoy! Serve hot and watch as everyone digs in eagerly.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, then cook the penne separately. Combine them with garlic butter and cheese for the best results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the penne for rigatoni or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until warm throughout.

Sharing my first experience making this cheesy penne was priceless; my friends devoured it and insisted I make it every week!

FAQ

Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, turkey is a lean alternative that works wonderfully in this recipe.

What type of cheese is best for this dish?

Mozzarella and cheddar are excellent choices for their meltability and flavor.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat!