Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef: The Ultimate Comfort Dish

Garlic Butter Ground Beef : when it comes to comfort food, few things hit the spot quite like a bowl of cheesy pasta. Add in garlic butter and ground beef, and you’ve got a dinner that’s rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving a hearty weeknight meal, Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is your new go-to recipe.

This dish brings together perfectly cooked penne pasta, rich ground beef, a generous amount of melted cheese, and a garlicky butter sauce that binds everything together in gooey, savory harmony. Want to understand why certain pastas like penne work best in these recipes? Learn more about pasta types and see why penne holds sauces so well.

It’s also important to handle the ground beef safely and correctly. If you’re unsure about cooking temperatures or best practices for meat prep, refer to the USDA’s ground beef food safety guidelines to keep things both delicious and safe in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this cheesy penne delight:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Optional Substitutions:

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Switch out cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Tools & Prep Tips

Before you start cooking, make sure you have:

• A large pot for boiling pasta
• A deep skillet or sauté pan
• A colander
• A wooden spoon or spatula

Time-saving hacks:

• Use pre-shredded cheese (though freshly shredded melts better).
• Pre-minced garlic from a jar works if you’re in a pinch.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef:
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the Garlic & Onion:
   Add butter to the same pan. Once melted, add onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
4. Mix in Seasonings:
   Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
5. Combine & Melt:
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef and butter mixture. Sprinkle in the cheddar and Parmesan. Stir until the cheese melts and coats everything.
6. Optional Oven Finish:
   Transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Delicious Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne.
• Extra Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
• One-Pot Meal: Cook the pasta in the same skillet using broth instead of water.

How to Store & Reheat

This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep.

• In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• In the Freezer: Freeze portions in resealable bags for up to 2 months.
• Reheating Tips: Warm in a skillet with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Nutritional Info (Approx. Per Serving)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 40g
• Fat: 30g

Healthier Options:

• Use whole wheat pasta
• Opt for reduced-fat cheese
• Swap butter for olive oil

Best Sides to Serve With It

• Garlic bread or buttered baguette slices
• Caesar or garden salad
• Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus
• Sparkling water, red wine, or a light soda

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta — it should be al dente
• Not draining the beef — excess grease ruins the texture
• Using low-moisture cheese that doesn’t melt well
• Forgetting to season — herbs and salt bring everything to life

FAQs About Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. It’s a great lean alternative and works well with garlic butter and cheese.

What cheese melts best for pasta dishes?
This guide to melting cheeses breaks it down well. Cheddar, mozzarella, and Fontina are top choices.

How do I make it more creamy or saucy?
Add a little heavy cream, cream cheese, or even Greek yogurt for a rich, velvety texture.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! It reheats beautifully and holds up well for 3–4 days in the fridge.

Can I bake it instead of using the skillet?
Sure thing! Just transfer it to a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes.

What’s the best pasta for cheesy garlic dishes?
Penne is perfect because it holds sauce inside the tubes, but rigatoni, ziti, or even rotini work well too.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is everything you want in a dinner — savory, creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the many variations, it’s sure to become a staple in your home.

Hungry yet? Grab that skillet and bring this cheesy pasta magic to life tonight.

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