Name: Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb lean ground beef; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

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When you think of comfort food, what dances in your mind? For me, it’s the mouthwatering aroma of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef wafting through the kitchen. Picture this: perfectly cooked penne, smothered in a creamy cheese sauce, paired with succulent ground beef sautéed in aromatic garlic butter. It’s a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, making you feel like a culinary wizard without making you break a sweat.

This delightful pasta dish has become a staple in our household. I remember the first time I served it to my friends during a movie night; they practically begged for the recipe before the credits rolled! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this cheesy delight is guaranteed to impress and keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
The rich flavor profile balances savory beef with creamy cheese, ensuring satisfaction in every bite
Its vibrant presentation makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any table
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with various veggies or proteins based on your cravings

I still chuckle at my friend’s face when he took that first bite—it was like watching someone discover chocolate for the first time!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Penne Pasta: A classic choice; its tubular shape holds the cheese sauce beautifully.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will elevate the dish’s aroma and taste significantly.
Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness and creaminess to the sauce—don’t skimp!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling saltiness while adding depth.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all those wonderful flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain well and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes; be careful not to burn it!

Add Ground Beef: Toss in the ground beef into the skillet with garlic. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as you go—this usually takes about 7-10 minutes.

Create the Cheese Sauce: Lower heat and pour in heavy cream. Stir continuously while adding shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything: Fold in cooked penne into the cheese sauce mixture gently until every piece is coated. Let simmer on low heat for another 3-5 minutes; this melds all those delicious flavors together.

Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving warm. Enjoy your masterpiece while still hot!

Now sit back and relish every cheesy bite—you’ve earned it!

And there you have it! With just these simple steps, you can whip up an incredible dish that’s sure to bring smiles around your dinner table. Enjoy!

You Must Know

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a comfort food classic
The creamy texture and savory beef create an irresistible dish your family will love
The aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen is just the cherry on top of this delightful meal

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef with garlic, then cook the penne while making the creamy sauce. This order ensures everything is perfectly timed and hot when served.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out penne for your favorite pasta, add veggies like spinach or bell peppers, or even try different cheeses for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, always use fresh herbs for flavor depth
Don’t rush the browning process; well-cooked meat adds richness
Lastly, save some pasta water before draining; it’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency

Cooking this dish brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter and deliciousness filled the air. Everyone gathers around, eagerly anticipating that first bite of cheesy goodness.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use another type of meat for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well if you prefer lighter options.

How can I make Cheesy Penne vegetarian?

Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

A mix of mozzarella and cheddar gives a nice balance of creaminess and flavor.