Looking for a delicious, quick, and easy dinner that the whole family will love? Look no further than cheesy penne garlic butter ground beef! This dish combines the rich, savory flavor of ground beef with the creamy, cheesy goodness of garlic butter and pasta, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you need dinners to make with ground beef or are simply looking for an easy, affordable dinner recipe, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a busy family dinner or meal prep. Penne pasta recipes with ground beef like this one are an excellent way to get dinner on the table fast, without sacrificing flavor. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible and how you can make it tonight!
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What Makes Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef So Irresistible
The combination of garlic butter, ground beef, and cheesy pasta creates a flavor explosion that is both savory and satisfying. The garlic butter sauce adds a rich, creamy base that coats the penne pasta perfectly, while the ground beef gives the dish substance and protein. The melted cheese on top ties everything together, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be customized to your taste, whether you want to add some heat, more veggies, or even switch up the protein. If you’re looking for easy lazy dinner ideas or dinners with beef, this cheesy beef pasta is an ideal choice. It’s a meal that’s both quick and comforting, making it perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients You Need for the Best Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious and creamy penne pasta recipe with ground beef:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta (or any pasta shape you prefer)
- Salt (for seasoning the pasta water)
For the Garlic Butter Ground Beef Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter (for sautéing)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (for a creamy sauce)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
These simple ingredients combine to make a creamy beef pasta dish that is hearty, comforting, and ready in just 30 minutes.
Essential Tools for Cooking Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef
To prepare this easy dinner recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Large pot (for boiling the pasta)
- Large skillet (for cooking the ground beef and making the sauce)
- Measuring spoons (for seasonings and cheese)
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
With these basic tools, you’ll be able to make this comforting dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Here’s how to make cheesy penne garlic butter ground beef in just a few simple steps:
1. Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (typically about 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
While the pasta is cooking, heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the beef.
3. Add the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. Sprinkle in the shredded cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
6. Serve and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh parsley (optional). Serve immediately, and enjoy your creamy cheesy beef pasta!
For another easy ground beef recipe, check out this creamy rotel pasta with ground beef for a flavorful twist on cheesy pasta dishes.
How to Customize Your Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef
While this dish is perfect as is, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences:
- Add heat: For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Add vegetables: Toss in some spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to add some veggies to the dish.
- Swap the cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, try using mozzarella, parmesan, or even pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
If you’re looking for more dinners with beef, check out this cheeseburger soup for another delicious and hearty ground beef recipe.
Serving Ideas: How to Serve Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef Like a Pro
Here are some great ideas for serving your cheesy beef pasta:
- With a side salad: Pair this dish with a fresh green salad with Italian dressing for a lighter, balanced meal.
- With garlic bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread for a more indulgent side that complements the rich flavors of the pasta.
- For meal prep: This dish makes excellent leftovers, so prepare it in advance for meal prep with ground beef and have it ready for the week.
For a savory and hearty side, serve this dish with quesadillas for a cheesy, crispy complement to the creamy pasta.
Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef
To make sure your cheesy penne garlic butter ground beef turns out perfect every time, follow these tips:
- Don’t overcook the ground beef: To avoid tough beef, be sure to cook it just until browned, not overdone.
- Use high-quality cheese: For the best creamy texture, use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded.
- Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a bit longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to reach the desired consistency.
If you love penne pasta recipes with ground beef, this cheesy beef pasta is sure to become one of your go-to meals.
How to Store Leftovers from Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat:
Refrigeration
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring back its creamy texture.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Store in a freezer-safe container and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop with a little extra cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
What to Pair with Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef
To complete your meal, try pairing this cheesy beef pasta with:
- A fresh green salad with light dressing to balance out the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted vegetables, like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, for a healthy side.
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks to soak up the creamy sauce.
For another ground beef dinner, try making this cheeseburger soup for a creamy, hearty soup option.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can swap the penne for spaghetti, rigatoni, or fettuccine depending on your preference.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove and add a bit of milk to loosen the sauce.
Can I make this with ground turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner version of this dish.
Why Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef Is a Must-Try Easy Dinner Recipe
This cheesy penne garlic butter ground beef recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need an easy, satisfying dinner that everyone will love. The combination of ground beef, garlic butter, and creamy cheese makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s a 30-minute meal that’s quick and simple enough for even the busiest nights.
For another hearty meal prep with ground beef, try making cheeseburger casserole!
PrintDelicious Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef – A Simple and Hearty Meal
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef is the ultimate quick dinner, combining tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a creamy garlic butter sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a family-friendly dinner. Loaded with cheese and comforting flavors, it’s a hit with both adults and kids.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (beef, turkey, or chicken can be used)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for a burst of color and flavor)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente (about 9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for later.
- Brown the ground beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the butter to the skillet with the browned beef. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Add the cheese: Stir in the mozzarella and parmesan cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Serve: Once everything is well combined, serve the pasta hot. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream: For the richest and creamiest sauce, use full-fat heavy cream. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute it with half-and-half, but the sauce may be less creamy.
- Don’t overcook the garlic: Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing it. Garlic cooks quickly and can become bitter if overcooked. Only sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Adjust the cheese levels: Add more cheese if you love a gooey, cheesy texture. You can also try adding other types of cheese, like cheddar or provolone, for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some on top before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Sautéed
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Ground Beef, Ground Beef Pasta, Penne Pasta Recipe, Garlic Butter Beef Pasta, Easy Pasta Dinner
