There’s just something about cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef that feels like a warm hug on a plate, don’t you think? The rich, savory flavors of the garlic butter perfectly complement the hearty ground beef, while the gooey, melted cheese takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness. This dish is not only incredibly satisfying, but it also comes together in a snap, making it the perfect choice for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you take that first forkful of cheesy goodness, you’ll understand why this has become a staple in my meal rotation. Get ready to make some magic happen in your kitchen!

Ingredients for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create a dish that’s rich in flavor and comfort. Trust me, you’ll want to keep these on hand for those nights when you need a quick, satisfying meal!

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 tbsp garlic butter (you can use store-bought or make your own!)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (the gooier, the better!)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (because we all need a pop of color!)

How to Prepare Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! Don’t worry, it’s super straightforward, and I’ll guide you through each step. Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal on your table in no time!

Cooking the Pasta

First things first, let’s get that penne pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in the 8 oz of penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente – you don’t want it too soft! Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. A little tip: drizzle a touch of olive oil over it to prevent sticking while you prepare the rest of the dish!

Preparing the Beef

Alright, now onto the good stuff! In a large skillet, melt your 4 tablespoons of garlic butter over medium heat. The aroma is going to be heavenly, I promise! Once it’s melted, add in the 1 lb of ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook it until it’s browned all over – about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to season it with salt and pepper to taste while it’s cooking. This step is crucial because it really enhances all those savory flavors!

Combining Ingredients

Now that your beef is perfectly browned, it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in your cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the beef, mixing them well so they’re evenly combined. Here’s where the magic happens: sprinkle in the 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and gooey, coating the pasta and beef beautifully. Don’t rush this step; really take your time to mix it all up and let those flavors mingle!

Final Touches

To finish off this delightful dish, grab some fresh parsley and chop it up for garnish. Sprinkle it over the top right before serving for that fresh pop of color! It not only looks beautiful but adds a lovely freshness to the rich flavors of the cheesy penne. Serve it hot, and watch everyone dive in with excitement!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and comfort! Here are a few reasons why you’ll absolutely adore making this dish:

• Quick Preparation: With just a 30-minute cook time, you can whip this up even on the busiest nights!
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a creamy, dreamy texture that’s simply irresistible.
• Hearty and Satisfying: This dish is packed with protein and flavors, making it a fulfilling option for dinner that’ll keep you satisfied.
• Versatile: Feel free to add in your favorite veggies or switch up the cheeses – it’s all about making it your own!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this cheesy, meaty pasta, making it perfect for family meals.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax after a long day.

Tips for Success

If you want to take your cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef to the next level, here are some fantastic tips I’ve picked up along the way. These little nuggets of wisdom will help you ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every single time!

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep a close eye on your penne while it’s cooking. You want it al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This will help it hold up better when mixed with the beef and cheese.
• Use High-Quality Beef: For the best flavor, opt for ground beef that’s at least 80% lean. This balance ensures you get enough fat for flavor without it being too greasy!
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Seasoning the beef while it cooks helps enhance all the flavors in the dish. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
• Experiment with Cheeses: If you’re a cheese lover like me, consider mixing in some cheddar or fontina along with the mozzarella and Parmesan. Each cheese brings its unique flavor and meltiness!
• Add Vegetables: Sneak in some veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them in the garlic butter before adding the beef!
• Mix and Melt Thoroughly: When you combine everything, take your time! Stir the pasta and cheese mixture until it’s well combined and the cheese is melted. This ensures you get that creamy texture in every bite.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot. The longer it sits, the more the cheese will firm up, so make sure to serve it right away for that gooey goodness!

Variations of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

If you’re like me, you love a little creativity in the kitchen! This cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef is a fantastic base to experiment with, so let’s talk about some fun variations that can elevate this dish to new heights.

• Veggie-Packed Penne: Add in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Not only do they boost the nutrition, but they also add vibrant colors and flavors!
• Different Cheeses: Switch things up by using a mix of cheeses. Try adding gouda or sharp cheddar for a bolder taste. You could even throw in some crumbled feta for a tangy twist!
• Switch the Pasta: Not a fan of penne? No problem! This recipe works beautifully with rigatoni, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the beef as it cooks. You can also add jalapeños or diced green chilies for an extra layer of flavor!
• Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a burst of freshness. Adding a bit of pesto can also give it an aromatic touch that’s irresistible.
• Creamy Variation: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese along with the cheeses. This will create an even richer sauce that coats every bite!
• Italian Sausage: Swap out the ground beef for Italian sausage for a more robust flavor. It’ll pair perfectly with the garlic butter and cheese!

Feel free to mix and match these variations based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re craving. The beauty of this dish is its versatility, so let your imagination run wild!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef, it’s always nice to know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for one serving of this delicious dish:

• Calories: 550
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 30g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But overall, this dish is a hearty, protein-packed meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a delicious batch of cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef, and now you’ve got some leftovers (if you can believe it!). Don’t worry; storing this dish is super easy, and I’ve got you covered on how to enjoy it again without losing that yummy flavor and texture!

First off, make sure to let the leftovers cool down to room temperature before storing. Once cooled, transfer your cheesy penne into an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh in the fridge! You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it’ll be good for up to 2 months. Just remember to label them with the date so you know when you made it!

Now, when it comes time to reheat, there are a couple of options! If you’re using the microwave, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help retain moisture while it heats. Warm it up in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through. If you prefer the stovetop, simply transfer the penne to a skillet, add a splash of water or broth to help loosen it up, and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed to your liking.

Oh, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before reheating for that gooey goodness all over again! Enjoy your leftovers—they’re just as comforting the second time around!

What’s Next?

I hope you’re as excited to try this cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef as I am! It’s truly a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts, variations, or any tips you discovered along the way. Your feedback means the world to me!

Also, if you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to give it a rating! It helps others find this delicious meal too. And hey, if you’re on social media, snap a photo of your cheesy creation and tag me! I can’t wait to see your beautiful plates and hear about your family’s reactions to this easy weeknight dinner.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to whip up this delightful dish on your next busy night. Trust me, it’s a meal that will bring smiles all around the table! Happy cooking!

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef: 5 Must-Try Tips

---

• Autor: Julia marin
• Całkowity Czas: 30 minutes
• Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
• Dieta: Bez Glutenu

Drukuj przepis

Zamocować przepis

Opis

Cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef is a hearty pasta dish that combines cheesy goodness with savory beef.

---

Składniki

Skala 1x2x3x

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 tbsp garlic butter
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

---

Instrukcje

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat garlic butter over medium heat.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned.
4. Season beef with salt and pepper.
5. Stir in the cooked penne and mix well.
6. Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Uwagi

• You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your liking.
• This dish is best served immediately.

• Czas Przygotowania: 10 minutes
• Czas gotowania: 20 minutes
• Kategoria: Main Course
• Sposób: Stovetop
• Kuchnia: Italian

Zasilanie

• Wielkość porcji: 1 serving
• Kalorie: 550
• Cukier: 2g
• Sód: 600mg
• Kwasy: 30g
• Nasycony tłuszcz: 15g
• Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 10g
• Tłuszcze trans: 1g
• Węglowodany: 45g
• Włókno: 3g
• Białko: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Słowa kluczowe: cheesy penne, garlic butter, ground beef, pasta dish