This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a quick and tasty meal, combining tender pasta with meaty goodness and a creamy sauce that’s hard to resist!
Who doesn’t love a good cheesy dish? I always make extra, just in case I want seconds (or thirds)! Plus, it comes together in no time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This shape holds the sauce wonderfully. If you’re out of penne, feel free to use any pasta type like rigatoni, rotini, or even spaghetti, though cooking times may vary.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef gives great flavor. If you’re looking to cut fat, consider ground turkey or chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a lighter dish.
Butter: Unsalted butter is key for controlling the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using olive oil or a vegan butter substitute instead.
Cheese: Mozzarella adds creaminess, while Parmesan provides a sharp flavor. For a twist, use cheddar or a cheese blend you enjoy, but keep an eye on melting characteristics.
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich sauce. If you want it lighter, substitute with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor without the calories.
How Do I Get the Perfect Garlic Butter Flavor?
The garlic butter step is where the magic happens! To get that wonderful flavor, here are some tips:
- Use fresh garlic for the best taste. If you must use powder, remember it’s not quite the same but can work in a pinch.
- Don’t rush the sautéing. Cook the garlic and onion until they’re soft and fragrant; this can take about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely—burnt garlic can spoil the dish!
- Always add the garlic after melting the butter. Garlic cooks quickly; letting it sit too long can lead to bitterness.
By paying attention to these steps, you’ll have a deeply flavorful dish that everyone will love!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Easy Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Beef and Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes boiling the pasta, while the beef and sauce come together in just 15 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dinner you can whip up on any busy night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it from the skillet.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In the same skillet, push the beef to one side. Add the butter to the empty side and let it melt. You want to get that nice garlic butter flavor going!
4. Sauté Garlic and Onion:
Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the melted butter. Cook them together for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Stir everything together, creating a beautiful mix of flavors.
5. Season the Mixture:
Next, mix the garlic and onion in with the ground beef. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the delicious flavors.
6. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat under the skillet. Pour the heavy cream (or milk) into the mixture and stir until it’s combined. Gradually add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses while stirring, until everything is melted and creates a creamy, cheesy sauce.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Now it’s time to unite the flavors! Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with that wonderful cheesy garlic butter and beef sauce.
8. Adjust and Garnish:
Taste your masterpiece! Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you’d like, chop some fresh parsley or basil and sprinkle it as a garnish to give it a pop of color and taste.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot, comforting Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef right away. Get those plates ready because this easy dinner is sure to be a hit!
Enjoy about 4 servings of this delightful meal. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or whenever you need something quick and cheesy!
FAQ for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just be aware that it may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can use whole wheat penne for added fiber and nutrients. Additionally, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or almond milk to reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to help it heat evenly.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic to incorporate more flavor and nutrition into the dish.
