There’s an indescribable comfort that comes from a plate of pasta on a cozy evening, and my Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is exactly that kind of dish. The moment the garlic hits the hot butter, an inviting aroma fills the kitchen, instantly making my home feel warm and welcoming. It’s this dish that takes mere ingredients and transforms them into a heartwarming experience, perfect for any weeknight dinner. Beyond the creamy texture and the savory richness of beef, there’s something nostalgically satisfying about twirling soft penne around a fork, drizzling it in melted cheese.
Whether you're an experienced chef looking for a quick meal or someone craving homemade goodness, this recipe serves up delicious comfort in just a handful of steps. Gather your loved ones, because once you serve this cheesy delight, they'll be asking for seconds—and you might just end up with a new family favorite!
Why will you love this Cheesy Penne?
Simplicity: This one-pot dish makes cooking a breeze, with minimal cleanup required.
Bold Flavor: Garlic, butter, and cheese come together in a symphony of taste that will leave you craving more.
Ultimate Comfort Food: The gooey cheese and hearty beef create a satisfying meal perfect for any chilly evening.
Quick Prep: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore twirling the pasta and savoring each comforting bite.
Transform your dinner routine with this delightful recipe, and consider pairing it with a refreshing salad or bread for a complete meal experience!
Cheesy Penne Ingredients
• Get ready to create a comforting masterpiece!
For the Pasta
- Penne Pasta – Provides the perfect base; feel free to substitute with gluten-free pasta for a tasty alternative.
For the Meat Mixture
- Ground Beef – Adds a rich, hearty flavor; lean ground turkey can be used as a lighter substitute.
- Garlic – Delivers bold flavor; use more for extra garlic goodness or minced garlic for convenience.
- Butter – Ensures a creamy sauce; swap it for olive oil for a lighter version.
For the Cheesy Goodness
- Cheese (e.g., cheddar) – Brings that delightful gooey texture; experiment with mozzarella or a blend for more flavor options.
For Seasoning
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, Italian herbs) – Enhance the dish's overall profile; adjust to your taste for a personal touch.
This Cheesy Penne recipe is a culinary hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy weeknights!
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Boil the Penne: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant and golden. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!
Brown the Beef: Incorporate 1 pound of ground beef into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Using a spatula, break the beef apart and cook until it’s evenly browned, roughly 5-7 minutes. Make sure to season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Meat: Gently fold the drained penne into the skillet with the beef and garlic butter. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle in 2 cups of your chosen cheese, stirring until it melts into the pasta and beef mixture, creating a creamy, inviting sauce. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water for extra creaminess.
Serve Warm: Plate the cheesy penne while it's hot, garnishing with extra cheese or a sprinkle of Italian herbs, if desired. Enjoy each comforting bite!
Optional: Top with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the penne and brown the ground beef up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to simply combine everything when it's time to enjoy. To prep ahead, cook the pasta until al dente, then toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Cook the beef with garlic and seasonings, let it cool, then store it separately in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, just rewarm both components in a skillet, mix together, and stir in the cheese until melted for a comforting meal that's just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
A plate of creamy penne is simply irresistible, but pairing it with the right sides elevates dinner to a whole new level.
Garlic Bread: The perfect companion, its crispy crust and buttery goodness will make each bite of pasta even more comforting.
Imagine tearing into a warm slice, smeared with garlic butter, and savoring it with your cheesy penne—it’s pure heaven!Fresh Green Salad: Add a light, refreshing touch with mixed greens drizzled in vinaigrette.
The crisp texture and zesty flavors balance the rich pasta, making every bite a delight.Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned asparagus or carrots add a touch of color and nutrition to the meal.
Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, offering a delicious contrast to the creamy pasta.Steamed Broccoli: This bright green vegetable is not only nutritious but also provides a satisfying crunch.
Toss it with a sprinkle of lemon juice to brighten the flavors, enhancing your dining experience.Cheesy Garlic Knots: Soft, doughy knots topped with melted cheese and garlic will charm your taste buds.
These heavenly bites are perfect for dipping into leftover sauce, turning every spoonful into an extraordinary treat.Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio: A chilled glass of white wine offers a crisp complement to buttery pasta.
Its acidity cuts through the richness, making your meal feel lighter and more refined.Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a light and airy dessert.
The smooth, rich texture of mousse contrasts beautifully with the heartiness of the cheesy penne.
Storage Tips for Cheesy Penne
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the dish covered to maintain freshness and prevent odors from mixing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cheesy penne in a labeled freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess and flavor.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the cheesy penne out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safe consumption.
Cheesy Penne Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
Dairy-Free: Use a vegan cheese alternative and replace butter with olive oil for a creamy base without dairy.
Vegetable-Loaded: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the ground beef mixture for a nutrition boost and delightful colors.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to bring a little heat to your cheesy dish.
Pasta Options: Swap penne for rigatoni, macaroni, or even whole grain pasta to mix things up while keeping it hearty.
Protein Swap: For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, keeping the dish deliciously tender.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten the flavors; they add a lovely freshness that elevates the dish.
Cheesy Blend: Experiment with a combination of cheeses, such as gouda, pepper jack, or fontina, for a complex flavor profile.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and a delightful crunch to each comforting bite.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Penne
Perfect Pasta: Avoid overcooking the penne; it should be al dente for the best texture in your cheesy penne dish.
Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to add more garlic for an extra kick. Remember, the garlic should be fragrant but not burnt.
Creamy Consistency: Reserve some pasta water before draining. If your cheesy penne seems dry, this water can help create that creamy, dreamy sauce.
Even Browning: Stir the ground beef frequently while browning to ensure even cooking and maximize flavor in each bite.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix cheeses! Using a blend of cheddar and mozzarella can elevate the flavor and texture profile of your cheesy penne.
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pasta for this dish?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for penne pasta, which perfectly captures the cheesy sauce. However, if you need gluten-free options, you can substitute with gluten-free penne or any similar shape. Look for pasta that is firm to the touch and has a slightly rough texture—this will help the sauce cling beautifully.
What is the best way to store leftover cheesy penne?
Very! To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s sealed well to keep the flavors intact. When you’re ready to reheat, just warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze cheesy penne?
Yes, indeed! This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. First, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a well-sealed freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Remember to label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on low, adding a bit of milk to revive its creamy texture.
What should I do if my cheesy penne turns out too dry?
Don't worry, it happens! If your dish turns out dry, the best remedy is to add a splash of reserved pasta water while reheating. This water is starchy and will help loosen up the sauce without compromising the flavor. Stir well and enjoy a creamy finish!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very much so! If you’re serving this to someone with gluten allergies, ensure you choose gluten-free pasta. Also, if there are dairy allergies, try a plant-based cheese alternative or skip the cheese altogether. It may alter the taste, but you’ll still enjoy a hearty dish!
How can I elevate the flavor of my cheesy penne?
Absolutely! To take this dish up a notch, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You can also mix different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for an interesting flavor twist. Adding herbs like fresh basil or parsley just before serving can enhance aromatic notes beautifully!
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Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the Penne: Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Cook penne until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Break apart and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Meat: Fold drained penne into the skillet with beef and garlic. Toss until well coated.
- Melt the Cheese: Add cheese and stir until melted into the pasta and beef mixture. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve Warm: Plate while hot, garnishing with extra cheese or Italian herbs, if desired.
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