This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef is a tasty dinner idea! Creamy cheese blends perfectly with tender beef and pasta, giving you a warm hug in a bowl.
You can’t go wrong with cheese and garlic—it’s a match made in food heaven! I love making this when I want something quick and comforting after a long day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This is a great choice because its shape holds onto the sauce well. If you don’t have penne, other pasta like rigatoni or farfalle can work too. Just pick a shape you love!
Ground Beef: While ground beef is tasty, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or crumbled tempeh cooked with similar spices.
Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar are classic in this dish. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, reduced-fat cheeses are available. Also, try using Gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter version, opt for half-and-half or a blend of Greek yogurt and milk to achieve creaminess without all the calories.
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Clumps?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce is all about temperature and technique. Here are some tips to help:
- Make sure the heat is medium when adding cream and milk—too high can scorch the sauce.
- Gradually add shredded cheese while stirring constantly. This prevents clumping. Shredded cheese melts better than blocks.
- If the sauce seems too thick, just add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
These steps will help you achieve a perfect, creamy sauce every time!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Beef:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish should take about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the penne and preparing the sauce, and then another 20 minutes combining the flavors and getting everything nice and cheesy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Penne Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season it with salt and black pepper to taste. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Garlic and Onion:
Lower the skillet’s heat to medium and add the butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté them until they’re fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
4. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well to combine everything. Add the dried Italian seasoning, and let the mixture simmer gently to heat through.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Gradually stir in the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
6. Combine the Ingredients:
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring everything together to combine it with the creamy cheese sauce. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing gently until the pasta is completely coated with that cheesy garlic butter beef sauce.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your Cheesy Penne to serving plates or bowls. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a touch of freshness and color.
9. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve immediately while it’s hot and gooey. Get ready to enjoy a delightful, cheesy meal that’s both hearty and satisfying!
This recipe combines tender beef with garlic butter and a rich, creamy cheese sauce that coats the penne pasta beautifully. It’s the perfect dish for a comforting family dinner!
FAQs for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you don’t have penne, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like rigatoni, farfalle, or even fusilli. Just ensure to cook it according to the package instructions for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will be good for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to revive the creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the beef a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them with the cooked pasta just before serving to ensure everything is fresh and hot.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk. Just be sure to stir them in gradually to maintain a smooth sauce consistency.
