There’s something soul-warming about a plate piled high with tender penne pasta coated in a rich, velvety sauce and studded with savory bits of seasoned ground beef. This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef brings together simple pantry staples—pasta, milk, cheese, garlic, and herbs—to create a dinner that feels both indulgent and familiar. Each forkful delivers a harmonious balance of creamy cheese, buttery garlic undertones, and that satisfying, meaty bite that makes you want to linger at the table a little longer. If you’ve ever craved comfort food without the fuss, this recipe has your name written all over it.
Not only does this dish taste like a warm hug on a chilly evening, but it’s also surprisingly approachable for cooks of any level. From the moment you hear the gentle hiss of garlic hitting melted butter in the skillet to the joyful stretch of molten cheddar as you stir, you’ll feel like you’re crafting something truly special. In under an hour, you’ll transform everyday ingredients into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or whenever your taste buds demand a cheesy, hearty treat. So roll up your sleeves, grab your spoon, and let’s dive into a pasta experience that’s creamy, comforting, and downright irresistible!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHEESY PENNE WITH GARLIC BUTTER GROUND BEEF
Before we get cooking, let’s explore the star players of this recipe. Each ingredient contributes flavor, texture, and character, working in harmony to elevate this dish from everyday pasta to a comfort-food classic.
- Ground beef
This hearty protein provides a rich, meaty foundation. Browning it until it develops those caramelized edges adds depth and umami, making every bite satisfyingly robust.
- Penne pasta
Its tube-like shape is perfect for capturing the creamy sauce. Cooking it al dente ensures a firm bite that won’t turn mushy when tossed with the cheese and beef.
- Garlic
When minced and gently sautéed, garlic infuses the dish with a pungent, aromatic kick. It’s the secret weapon that wakes up your taste buds and ties all the flavors together.
- Unsalted butter
This adds a silky, rich base for our sauce. Using unsalted butter lets you control the seasoning perfectly, ensuring your dish isn’t overly salty.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp and tangy, cheddar lends a bold flavor that cuts through the creaminess. It adds vibrant color and that classic, crave-worthy cheese pull.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Known for its meltiness and mild taste, mozzarella creates an ultra-smooth texture. It helps the sauce stretch and cling to each piece of penne.
- Milk
The backbone of our creamy sauce. When combined with a roux of butter and flour, it transforms into a luscious, velvety coating for the pasta.
- All-purpose flour
Used to make a roux, flour thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency. It creates a stable, smooth base that holds the cheese without separating.
- Salt
Enhances and balances all the flavors. A measured amount ensures your cheese sauce and beef aren’t bland.
- Black pepper
Adds a subtle heat and aroma. Freshly cracked pepper brings a gentle, warming bite to each spoonful.
- Italian seasoning
A fragrant mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. It introduces a Mediterranean flair that brightens the richness of the dish.
- Olive oil
Helps brown the beef evenly and prevents sticking. Its fruity notes add a hint of complexity to the sautéed meat.
- Fresh parsley
A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and a fresh, herbaceous finish. It lightens up the heavy cheese sauce with a pop of green.
HOW TO MAKE CHEESY PENNE WITH GARLIC BUTTER GROUND BEEF
Let’s walk through the cooking process step by step. This method ensures your pasta turns out perfectly coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce studded with flavorful ground beef.
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 9–11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Once it’s tender but still firm to the bite, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s deeply browned all over—about 6–8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the minced garlic. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and just starting to turn golden but not burnt.
4. Push the beef mixture to one side of the skillet and add the butter to the empty side. Once the butter melts, sprinkle in the flour and stir quickly to form a paste (this is your roux). Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps, creating a smooth, creamy base.
5. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes. You’re aiming for a rich texture that coats the back of a spoon.
6. Lower the heat slightly and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until it’s completely melted and silky smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the beef and sauce. Use tongs or a sturdy spoon to toss everything together, ensuring each piece of penne is generously coated in cheesy goodness.
8. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and a hint of herbal freshness. Serve this cheesy delight warm and watch it disappear in minutes!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHEESY PENNE WITH GARLIC BUTTER GROUND BEEF
When it comes to presenting your Cheesy Penne, a thoughtful pairing can elevate the entire meal. Think about textures, flavors, and temperature contrasts that complement the richness of the pasta. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, impressing guests, or packing a hearty take-to-work lunch, these serving suggestions will help you plate like a pro and balance that indulgent sauce.
- A crisp green salad with mixed baby greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast. The acidity cuts through the cheese sauce, and the crunchy leaves add a lively texture that keeps each bite exciting.
- Warm garlic bread brushed with melted butter, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of parsley is the perfect sidekick. Toast the bread under the broiler for a minute to achieve golden edges, then serve alongside the penne for swoon-worthy dipping action.
- A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like a Merlot or Chianti, complements the savory ground beef and creamy cheese. The fruit-forward notes and gentle tannins create a delightful interplay with each cheesy forkful.
- For a fun interactive touch, set up a toppings bar with extra shredded parmesan, red pepper flakes, chopped basil, and crunchy breadcrumbs. Let everyone customize their bowl to suit their taste, adding a playful twist to your dinner table.
HOW TO STORE CHEESY PENNE WITH GARLIC BUTTER GROUND BEEF
Once the pan is empty, you might be tempted to order takeout instead of dealing with leftovers. But this cheesy penne actually stores beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy nights. By following the right storage methods, you’ll maintain that signature creaminess and meaty flavor without drying out or losing texture.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container: Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into a sealed glass or BPA-free plastic container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. The airtight seal helps preserve moisture and flavor.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop: Place leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce. Stir continuously until heated through to prevent separation and maintain creaminess.
- Freeze for longer storage: Portion the penne into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out excess air before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above, adding a little liquid if needed.
- Separate sauce and pasta (optional): If you plan to store for more than a couple of days, cook the pasta and sauce separately. Keep the sauce in an airtight jar and the pasta in its own container. Combine and reheat just before serving to retain optimal texture.
CONCLUSION
This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together with a bit of love and care. From the moment you brown the ground beef to the satisfying swirl of cheese melting into your homemade sauce, you’ve crafted a comfort-food classic that’s both indulgent and approachable. Whether you’re a seasoned cook looking for a quick dinner fix or a kitchen newbie eager to impress, this dish checks all the boxes: it’s beginner-friendly, takes under an hour from start to finish, and delivers about 600 calories of pure, creamy satisfaction per serving. And let’s not forget the flexibility—swap in different cheeses, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes, or jazz it up with extra veggies to make it truly your own.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder or bookmark it for easy reference on busy nights. You can also find a FAQ section below that addresses common questions about substitutions, reheating tips, and troubleshooting. If you give this recipe a whirl, please share your thoughts—leave a comment, ask a question, or let me know how it turned out in your kitchen. Your feedback helps me refine recipes and inspire more home cooks like you to roll up their sleeves and dish up delicious memories. Happy cooking!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Description
Savor the rich blend of garlic butter, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheeses enveloping tender penne pasta. A comforting masterpiece that's perfect for any dinner table!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and swirl to coat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Push the beef mixture to one side of the skillet and add the butter to the other side. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir quickly to form a paste. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to form a smooth sauce.
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Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the sauce and stir until completely melted and smooth.
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Combine the cooked penne pasta with the beef and sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this cheesy delight warm!
Note
- For added flavor, consider using a mix of different cheeses like Parmesan or Monterey Jack.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when adding the garlic.
- To make it a complete meal, serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
