As the golden hues of sunset dance through my kitchen window, I feel the familiar pull of nostalgia wash over me. The comforting scent of garlic sizzling in butter brings back memories of family dinners, laughter, and love-infused meals. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe: Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. This crowd-pleasing dish is not just about the creamy, cheesy goodness; it’s about bringing the family together, even on the busiest of weeknights.
With just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand, you can create an array of flavors tailored to your taste buds. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick dinner after a long day or impress guests with minimal effort, this dish promises effortless satisfaction. Trust me, it’s the kind of meal that turns any ordinary evening into a cozy gathering, filled with smiles and satisfied appetites. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure that’s sure to become a regular at your dinner table!
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Simplicity at its best: This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe is perfect for those who want a comforting meal without the fuss. Rich, savory flavor: The combination of garlic and cheese creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your home. Family-friendly: With easy-to-find ingredients, it pleases even the pickiest eaters. Quick prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights. Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or protein substitutes to make it your own. You’ll find yourself making this dish over and over again!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Ingredients
Prepare for a cozy meal: Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful dish the whole family will love!
For the Pasta
• Penne Pasta – The main structure of the dish; try fusilli or rotini for a fun twist.
For the Beef
• Ground Beef – Provides richness and protein; swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
For the Flavor
• Garlic – Infuses aromatic goodness; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
• Butter – Adds creaminess and flavor; use olive oil for a lighter version.
For the Cheesy Goodness
• Cheddar Cheese – Gives that classic cheesy flavor; feel free to mix with mozzarella or your favorite cheese blend.
Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the flavors; adjust to your taste for the best results.
With these hearty ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to making a comforting dish that shines at any table!
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and add the penne pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant but not browned.
Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the drained penne, reserved pasta water, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until creamy and heated through, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Season and Serve: Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm and, for an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color and flavor.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Set the stage for a delightful meal that complements the comforting flavors of savory beef and creamy cheese.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasted goodness of garlic bread pairs perfectly, allowing diners to savor every last bite of the cheesy sauce.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright and vibrant, steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch, making the meal colorful while balancing the richness of the penne.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty pasta, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers provides caramelized sweetness and adds layers of flavor to your dinner table.
Fresh Green Salad: Light and zesty, a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette brings a refreshing bite that balances the dish's richness beautifully.
Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine, like a Pinot Noir or Chianti, complements the meal's savory depth, enhancing the overall flavors.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse offers a sweet ending that feels indulgent without being heavy, leaving everyone satisfied.
With these delightful pairings, your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef meal will transform into a complete feast that warms the heart!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the ground beef mixture with garlic and seasonings up to 3 days in advance; simply cook it, let it cool, and refrigerate in an airtight container. Additionally, you can cook the penne pasta up to 24 hours ahead—just toss it in a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you're ready to serve, combine the prepped ingredients in a skillet with the reserved pasta water and shredded cheddar, heating until creamy and delicious. This way, you can enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort on hectic weeknights!
Cheesy Penne Variations
Customize your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef to create even more delightful flavors and textures that your family will love!
Veggie Additions: Incorporate fresh spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers during the sautéing step for extra nutrition and color. A little pop of green makes this dish even more inviting!
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the skillet while cooking the beef for a deliciously fiery twist. It’s all about the heat that warms the heart!
Creamy Twist: For an even richer texture, mix in a few tablespoons of cream cheese right before serving. It creates a luscious, dreamy finish that's hard to resist.
Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by stirring in fresh basil or thyme during the last few minutes of cooking. The aromatic herbs bring a bright and refreshing note to this comforting dish!
Ranch Flavor: Stir in a packet of ranch seasoning as you combine the ingredients for a flavorful kick that adds a unique twist. Kids will love the familiar taste while you enjoy the creativity!
Protein Swap: Switch ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take on this classic dish. It keeps the heartiness while adding a touch of healthiness!
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese blends, like mozzarella or pepper jack, to give the dish a new flavor profile. Each cheese brings its delightful personality to the table.
Zoodles Option: Replace half of the penne with spiralized zucchini for a low-carb twist. It results in a delightful texture and a refreshing taste that elevates this cozy meal!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Penne
Pasta Perfection: Avoid overcooking the penne; cooking it al dente preserves its texture and prevents a mushy dish.
Garlic Guidance: Keep the heat at medium when sautéing garlic to avoid burning. If it burns, discard it and start fresh for perfect flavor.
Creamy Consistency: Reserve that pasta water! Adding it back helps achieve a creamy sauce that binds the cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef seamlessly.
Flavor Boosting: Don't hesitate to add fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. This elevates flavors and adds vibrant color.
Veggie Variety: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or other vegetables during cooking for a nutritious twist to your cheesy penne.
Customized Comfort: Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option while still enjoying that comforting cheesiness.
Storage Tips for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Freezing: Freeze the cheesy penne in a container for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Airtight Tips: Ensure the dish is completely cooled before sealing; this helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the flavors intact.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, heat on low heat and stir frequently, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed for a silky texture.
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta should I use?
I recommend using penne for this recipe as it perfectly holds the creamy sauce, but you can substitute with fusilli or rotini for a fun twist. Just make sure to cook according to the package instructions for the best texture!
How can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore the creaminess and help it heat evenly.
Can I freeze Cheesy Penne?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Place the cheesy penne in a container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of reserved pasta water to maintain that luscious consistency.
What should I do if my pasta seems too dry after cooking?
If your cooked penne appears dry, don’t worry! Simply add a bit of the reserved pasta water while reheating. Start with a small amount and stir, adding more as necessary until it reaches your desired creaminess.
Are there any dietary substitutes I can make?
Certainly! If you're looking for a lighter dish, switch the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. For those seeking vegetarian options, try using lentils or chickpeas instead of meat. You can also add spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition without losing flavor.
What can I do with leftover ingredients?
Great question! You can use extra cheddar cheese in quesadillas or sprinkle it on salads for a cheesy touch. Remaining garlic can be roasted for a delicious spread, and any extra butter can be used in baking or sautéing vegetables!
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Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the penne pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned.
- Stir in drained penne, reserved pasta water, and shredded cheddar until creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper, serve warm, garnishing with parsley or basil if desired.
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