This Cheesy Garlic Butter Penne is a cozy meal that really hits the spot! With ground beef, creamy cheese, and garlic butter, it’s a dish that makes everyone smile at the dinner table.
You can’t go wrong with cheese and garlic! I love how this recipe comes together quickly, perfect for busy nights. Just one pot, and dinner is served—easy clean-up too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is perfect for holding onto that cheesy sauce. If you’re looking for alternatives, try rotini or bowtie pasta, which work great too. Gluten-free pasta can also fit in nicely if needed.
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds a nice richness to the dish. You can substitute with turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist.
Cheeses: I love using mozzarella for a stretchy, gooey texture and Parmesan for its salty depth. If you want a sharp kick, swap in cheddar for part of the mozzarella or add some cream cheese for extra creaminess!
Butter: Unsalted butter is used for taste control. You could use olive oil instead for a lightening twist or if you’re keeping it dairy-free.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
How Do I Create a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling It?
Making a creamy sauce can be tricky if you rush it. The goal here is to bring the ingredients together smoothly. Here’s how you can achieve that :
- Start by adding the milk or cream gradually to the sautéed garlic and onion, stirring constantly to combine.
- Keep the heat on medium—not too hot—so the cream doesn’t boil aggressively. A gentle simmer is key.
- Add cheese gradually while stirring, allowing each addition to melt smoothly before adding more.
- If using beef broth, pour it in first before the cream to help the mixture start heating without shock.
These steps will help you achieve a silky, rich sauce every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Penne with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Meat:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
For The Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking everything, plus a few minutes to serve and enjoy. It’s the perfect quick and comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, grab a large skillet or pan and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pan, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook the beef until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it off, then remove the cooked beef from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Onion:
In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
If you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes now! Then pour in the beef broth and milk (or cream) into the pan. Stir the mixture well, bringing it to a gentle simmer to combine the flavors.
5. Mix in the Cheeses:
Now, return the cooked ground beef to the pan and stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is nice and creamy.
6. Combine with the Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked penne pasta right into the sauce. Toss everything together so that the pasta is well coated in the cheesy, garlicky goodness.
7. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Cook for another minute to heat everything through. Then, it’s time to serve!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Dish out the Cheesy Garlic Butter Penne and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!
This delicious pasta dish is sure to be a hit—rich, cheesy, and full of flavor. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
FAQ for Cheesy Garlic Butter Penne with Ground Beef
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat penne provides a nuttier flavor and more fiber, while gluten-free pasta works just as well. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may differ slightly.
How Can I Make It Spicier?
If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also toss in some chopped jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if it appears too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Meat?
Definitely! You can skip the ground beef and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or any veggies you like for a vegetarian version. You might also consider adding some lentils for protein!