Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is an amazing dish that everyone will love. This hearty meal combines rich flavors of garlic butter, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked penne pasta with savory ground beef. For an easy, comforting dinner, this recipe brings a wholesome and delightful experience to the table. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish is both satisfying and delicious.

What makes Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef truly special is its ability to blend simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Imagine diving into a warm plate of pasta, where every bite is infused with a buttery-garlic aroma. The blend of cheese melting into every nook and cranny makes it hard to resist.

Plus, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are simple enough for any home cook. This dish not only impresses with its flavors but also its ease of preparation. Get ready to discover how to make this incredible meal that will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Preparation and Cooking Time

To enjoy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, you need to know the time commitment. Here’s a quick outline of the preparation and cooking timeline:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

This simple time commitment allows you to have a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for those evenings when time is of the essence!

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or a blend)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is straightforward. Follow these easy steps to impress your family and friends:

1. Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, add the ground beef over medium heat. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add Garlic and Butter: Once the beef is cooked, add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Season: Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine the flavors.
5. Incorporate Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add Cheese: Gradually add shredded cheese into the skillet, stirring until it melts and creates a creamy sauce.
7. Combine Pasta: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the cheese and meat mixture.
8. Heat Through: Allow everything to heat together for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
9. Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to delight your taste buds!

How to Serve

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a versatile dish that works well for various occasions. Consider these tips when serving:

1. Presentation: Serve it in a charming bowl or directly in the skillet for a rustic look.
2. Garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness, making your dish visually appealing.
3. Accompaniments: Pair with garlic bread or a light salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
4. Wine Pairing: A glass of light red or white wine complements the flavors of the dish nicely.
5. Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on the stove for best results.

By following these serving tips, you can elevate the dining experience and create a memorable meal for everyone involved!

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic, quality ground beef, and high-quality cheese.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta. You may want to add a pinch more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Add Aromatics: Try adding onion or shallots while sautéing the ground beef for depth of flavor.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the dish.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses like Mozzarella, Gouda, or Parmesan for a unique flavor combination.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to switch things up! Here are a few variations to try:

1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
2. Creamy Spinach Penne: Stir in spinach or kale along with the heavy cream for a nutritional boost.
3. Baked Cheesy Penne: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Replace penne with zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative that still brings great flavor.
5. Broccoli Cheddar Penne: Add steamed broccoli florets for a colorful and nutritious twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, gently thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet or microwave.

Special Equipment

You don’t need many special tools to make this dish, but these can be helpful:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet for cooking beef and sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
• Colander for draining pasta

Conclusion

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food that combines ease of preparation with rich, mouthwatering flavors. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With its creamy texture and savory components, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Give it a try, and see how it becomes a regular in your meal rotation!