This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef is a hearty dish that brings comfort to any dinner table. It’s packed with creamy cheese and tender beef, all tossed with pasta and a bit of garlic.
You know what’s great? The garlic butter! It makes everything taste wonderful. I often find myself going back for seconds—it’s just that good! 😋
This meal is so easy to whip up that I can make it even on busy nights. Just cook the beef, mix it with the pasta, and watch it disappear! Perfect for the whole family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This tubular pasta holds the cheese and sauce well. If you don’t have penne, you can use rigatoni, ziti, or even bowtie pasta for a fun twist!
Ground Beef: I usually opt for lean ground beef to cut down on excess fat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works great too.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is perfect for that stretchy, gooey texture. Parmesan adds a savory bite. If you want to experiment, try cheddar for a sharper flavor or add a sprinkle of feta for a different twist!
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, half-and-half or even Greek yogurt can substitute, though the texture will change slightly.
Italian Seasoning: This is a go-to for added flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, use a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme, or just stick with fresh herbs if available!
How Do You Create a Smooth Cheese Sauce?
Making a smooth cheese sauce can be challenging, but with the right steps, it’s easy!
- Make sure to keep the heat low when adding the cheese. High heat can cause it to clump.
- Gradually mix in the cheese to the creamy base to help it melt evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more cream or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Following these tips will ensure a luscious, velvety sauce that perfectly coats your pasta and beef. Enjoy your cooking!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
For the Beef Layer:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the beef, and then around 15-20 minutes for the sauce and combining everything. Once you try it, you’ll definitely keep it in your regular dinner rotation!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to keep warm.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Season it with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add the butter. When the butter is melted, add the minced garlic, sautéing it for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant but not browned. Careful not to burn the garlic for the best flavor!
4. Combine Cream and Cheese:
Pour the heavy cream and whole milk into the skillet, stirring everything to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. Once it’s simmered, add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
5. Mix Everything Together:
Now, return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the cheesy garlic sauce. Stir it well to combine everything together. Next, pour in the drained penne pasta and toss everything together so the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and beef.
6. Final Seasoning and Serve:
Give everything a taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If you fancy, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy penne with savory garlic butter beef!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Penne Instead of Regular Penne?
Absolutely! Whole wheat penne is a great alternative and adds a nice nutty flavor. Just be sure to check the cooking time on the package, as it may vary slightly from regular penne.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives, lentils, or even sautéed mushrooms for added flavor. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the overall taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess!
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef! Make sure to cool it completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the oven.
