Oh, honey, let me tell you about Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. Just the thought of it makes my kitchen smell like a warm hug. I remember the first time I made this dish, I was so stressed trying to get dinner on the table, and I accidentally used sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk in the sauce. The kids were not impressed! But, hey, we all have those moments, right? I eventually perfected it, and now, this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a regular feature on our dinner table.
It’s the kind of meal that everyone, even the pickiest eaters, will gobble up. It’s cheesy, it’s beefy, it’s garlicky – what’s not to love? Plus, it’s quick enough to throw together on a busy weeknight. And, honestly, sometimes, after a long day, all I want is a big bowl of comfort, and this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef delivers every single time.
It really did take me a few tries to get here, but the creamy cheesy garlic butter sauce that smothers the pasta and the ground beef is divine! What is even better is that you can throw it into the oven as a cheesy beef pasta bake. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking! I promise, you’ll love this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef as much as my family does.
INGREDIENTS:
Okay, girlfriend, let’s talk ingredients for this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. This is where you can really make it your own, but here’s what I use:
- 1 pound Penne Pasta: I always use the regular kind, but feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free if that’s your jam.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: I prefer lean ground beef (90/10), but 80/20 works too; just make sure to drain off the extra grease.
- 4 tablespoons Butter: Unsalted is my go-to so I can control the saltiness, but salted works in a pinch – just reduce the amount of added salt.
- 4 cloves Garlic: Minced. And when I say minced, I mean minced. Nobody wants big chunks of garlic in their Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef!
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: This enhances the garlic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder: Adds a little bit of depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour: This helps thicken up the sauce.
- 3 cups Milk: Whole milk makes it extra creamy, but 2% works just fine.
- 1 cup Beef Broth: Adds a richer flavor than just using milk.
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite, but a mild cheddar or a cheddar blend works great too.
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: For that melty, gooey goodness.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nice salty, nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
- Optional: Red Pepper Flakes: For a little kick!
- Optional: Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish.
I always use organic ground beef for my Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef because I feel better about feeding it to my family. You can find really good deals on ground beef at Costco if you have a membership. Here’s a Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef trick I learned from my mom: always grate your own cheese! The pre-shredded stuff has cellulose in it, which prevents it from melting as nicely. This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is so good you are going to want to savor every bite of it! So, there you have it! Easy peasy, right?
HOW TO MAKE – STEP-BY-STEP:
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. I promise it’s easier than it looks!
- Cook the Pasta: First things first, get a large pot of salted water boiling. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Don’t overcook it, or it will get mushy in the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Make the Garlic Butter: Now, for the good stuff! In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Nobody likes burnt garlic in their Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.
- Create the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the garlic butter and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This will create a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Slowly whisk in the milk and beef broth, making sure to break up any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Creating a roux is crucial for achieving that perfect, creamy texture. The flour helps to bind the liquids together, preventing a grainy sauce. Make sure to cook the flour for a full minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you’re feeling spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices to add depth to the flavor! A dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of dried oregano can elevate the dish to a whole new level. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also add a touch of elegance and complexity.
- Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Don’t let the sauce boil, or the cheese might separate. The key to a smooth, cheesy sauce is to keep the heat low and stir constantly. If the sauce gets too hot, the cheese can curdle and become grainy. Adding the cheese gradually, one handful at a time, helps ensure that it melts evenly and smoothly.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked penne pasta and browned ground beef to the cheese sauce. Toss everything together until well combined. Make sure every noodle is coated in that delicious sauce!
- Bake (Optional): This is where you can turn it into a cheesy beef pasta bake. Pour the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with additional cheese, if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef!
I learned the hard way with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef that it’s better to slightly undercook the pasta because it will continue to cook in the sauce. In my kitchen, Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef usually takes about 30 minutes to make, from start to finish. While the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is cooking, I usually throw together a quick salad or steam some veggies.
Your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef should smell like garlic, cheese, and pure comfort. Don’t worry if your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef doesn’t look perfect the first time. This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe is the perfect, hearty, family friendly meal that is great for busy nights. It is easy to put together and you can even make it into a casserole if you choose.
SERVING:
Now, for the best part: serving this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef! The kids love our Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef when I serve it with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad. It makes it a complete meal and they love dipping the garlic bread into the cheesy sauce.
This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time, or even for a casual get-together with friends. This dish is so versatile; it’s great for potlucks and gatherings. It can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a crowd. If you’re serving it at a buffet, keep it warm in a slow cooker to maintain its creamy texture and deliciousness.
When it comes to presentation, I like to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top and garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color. If you have extra Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, it’s even better the next day! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This cheesy beef pasta bake recipe is perfect for the whole family. I always use this ground beef penne recipe when I have friends or family over and they all love it!
My friends always ask for this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe, and I’m always happy to share it. It’s such a crowd-pleaser! For a seasonal variation, try adding some roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers. You can add whatever you like. One of my favorite pairings with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a crisp Caesar salad. The creamy dressing complements the richness of the pasta perfectly. This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe is one I have kept and treasured.
FAQs:
Okay, girlfriend, let’s tackle some of the most frequently asked questions about this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. I’ve heard it all, so don’t be shy!
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Penne is my go-to, but rotini, shells, or even macaroni would work just fine. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. I just love penne as it holds onto the garlic butter ground beef pasta really well.
Q: Can I make this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! Prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them when you’re ready to serve. If you’re making the cheesy beef pasta bake version, you can assemble it ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Q: What if my sauce is too thick?
A: No problem! Just add a little more milk or beef broth until you reach your desired consistency. You know what I do when my Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is too thick? I add a splash of pasta water. It helps thin it out and adds a little extra flavor.
Q: Can I freeze this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
A: Yes, you can freeze the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. However, the texture of the pasta and cheese may change slightly after thawing. To minimize this, make sure to cool the pasta completely before freezing, and use an airtight container or freezer bag. If you love Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, you’ll also enjoy Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Definitely! This dish is very versatile. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers. Sauté them before adding them to the sauce. If you’re looking for some dinner ideas with chicken breast and ground beef you can check this site Dinner ideas with chicken breast and ground beef
Q: My cheese isn’t melting smoothly. What am I doing wrong?
A: Make sure you’re using freshly grated cheese, as the pre-shredded stuff often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly. Also, keep the heat low and stir constantly.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. It’s a leaner option, but you may need to add a little extra oil to the pan when browning it. A quick and delicious dinner idea filled with ground beef, mini A quick and delicious dinner idea filled with ground beef, mini …
My Final Thoughts:
This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a dish that my whole family loves. It’s comforting, it’s easy, and it always brings smiles to the dinner table. Plus, it reminds me of simpler times when I was just learning to cook. It is the perfect garlic butter penne pasta.
Here are my Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Pro Tips:
- Don’t overcook the pasta! Al dente is the way to go.
- Grate your own cheese! It makes a huge difference in the creaminess of the sauce.
- Taste as you go! Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Here are a few Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef variations I’ve tried with my family:
- Spicy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef: Add a generous pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. My oldest loves this version!
- Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef with Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers to the sauce. My youngest loves this version because it gives her all the nutrients she needs.
- Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef with Bacon: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the sauce. Need I say more? If you want to make it easier check out Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
I hope you give this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe a try and make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, or spices. This is really a recipe that is all your own! Remember, cooking should be fun and relaxing! I know you can do it.
This is one of my family favorites, along with Garlic Butter Chicken over Cheesy Cajun Rotini, and I know it will be yours as well! The cheesy beef pasta bake version is worth every bite! I made this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta, and it’s a I made this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta, and it’s a … total winner, so why not try mine as well? Now, go forth and create some kitchen magic with this fantastic Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. Perfectly cooked penne pasta is tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with savory ground beef and a generous amount of melted cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked penne pasta and ground beef to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the garlic butter sauce.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the pasta and ground beef. Cover the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.