Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a quick and utterly delicious dinner, you’ve got to try this one pot cheesy beef garlic penne! Seriously, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. This dish is my go-to for those busy weeknights when I just don’t have the time or energy to whip up a complicated meal but still want something that feels comforting and satisfying. I remember the first time I made it – I was just experimenting with what I had in my pantry, and wow, it turned out to be a game changer!
The beauty of this recipe is that everything cooks in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze. You’ll love how the beef gets all flavorful and tender while the pasta absorbs that rich, garlicky broth. And let’s not forget about the cheese – it melts into the dish, making it creamy and dreamy. I can’t help but smile every time I take a bite! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation. Let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious dish, shall we?
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef – I like to use lean ground beef for this recipe, but you can go for whatever you have on hand!
- 12 ounces penne pasta – This shape is perfect because it holds onto the sauce so well, but feel free to swap it out if you have another favorite.
- 4 cups beef broth – The broth adds so much flavor; I always opt for low-sodium so I can control the saltiness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar gives that lovely gooeyness, but you could use a mix of cheeses if you want to get creative!
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic kick; it makes the whole dish sing!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – This blend really elevates the flavor, but you can adjust it to your taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always taste as you go, you know? It makes a world of difference!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the beef and garlic; it adds a nice richness to the dish.
How to Prepare one pot cheesy beef garlic penne
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Alright, let’s get started! First, grab your large pot and heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it nice and warm, just shimmering a bit. Once that’s ready, add in the ground beef. I like to break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks – it helps it brown evenly. You’ll want to cook it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s all browned and those delicious juices start to flow. Just make sure to stir it occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. The smell will be amazing, trust me!
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Now, here comes the magic! Once your beef is beautifully browned, it’s time to add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir and let it cook for just about 1 minute. This is crucial because you want the garlic to get fragrant but not burnt. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts smelling like an Italian bistro! Yum!
Step 3: Add Broth and Pasta
Next up, carefully pour in the beef broth. I usually let it come to a nice rolling boil, and then it’s time to add the penne pasta! Stir it in gently so that all the pasta is submerged in that lovely broth. Bring it back to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Give it a stir every now and then to prevent sticking – you want that pasta to soak up all those wonderful flavors!
Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Season
Alright, we’re almost there! Once your pasta is cooked just right, it’s time to stir in that glorious cheddar cheese. I like to add it a handful at a time, stirring until it’s all melted and creamy. The texture will be just divine! Don’t forget to taste it and add salt and pepper to your liking. You want it to be seasoned just perfectly! And there you have it – a comforting bowl of cheesy goodness ready to be devoured!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk nutrition! While we all know this one pot cheesy beef garlic penne is incredibly delicious, it’s also good to have an idea of what’s in it. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
These values are estimates, so keep that in mind when you’re enjoying your hearty bowl of pasta! It’s a satisfying meal that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition, perfect for fueling your busy days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need a satisfying meal fast!
- Delicious Flavors: The combination of savory beef, aromatic garlic, and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
- One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze! You can focus on enjoying your meal rather than scrubbing dishes.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix things up with different cheeses or add veggies for extra nutrition. It’s a dish that can evolve with your tastes!
- Comfort Food Classic: There’s something so comforting about a cheesy pasta dish, and this one definitely hits the spot every time.
- Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and familiar flavors, even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to whip up this delicious one pot cheesy beef garlic penne, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Don’t rush the browning: Take your time when browning the beef. It adds a depth of flavor that makes all the difference. If you rush it, you might end up with gray meat instead of that beautiful brown color.
- Fresh ingredients are key: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and herbs. They elevate the dish and make your kitchen smell absolutely divine. If you’re using dried herbs, remember that they’re more concentrated, so adjust accordingly.
- Stir often: During the simmering step, make sure to stir the pasta occasionally. This prevents it from clumping together and sticking to the bottom of the pot. You want every bite to be coated in that luscious sauce!
- Cheese choices: While cheddar is fantastic, don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses! A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan can add a delightful stretchiness and nutty flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Adjust the seasoning: Always taste as you go! Depending on the broth you use and your personal preference, you might want to add a little more salt or pepper. This is your dish, so make it just how you like it!
- Let it sit: After cooking, let the dish sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together even more and gives the sauce a chance to thicken slightly.
- Leftover love: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. This dish reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop with just a splash of water to bring back that creamy texture!
With these tips in hand, you’re all set to create a comforting bowl of one pot cheesy beef garlic penne that’ll have everyone coming back for more. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this one pot cheesy beef garlic penne is how adaptable it is! You can easily switch things up to suit your tastes or whatever you have in the fridge. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Cheese Swap: While I love using cheddar, you can experiment with different cheeses! Try mozzarella for that stretchy goodness, or go for a sharp provolone for a kick of flavor. You could even mix in some crumbled blue cheese for a tangy twist!
- Veggie Boost: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Toss in some chopped spinach, diced bell peppers, or sliced mushrooms with the garlic. They’ll cook down beautifully and add color and flavor to your dish!
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños when cooking the beef. It’ll give your dish a delicious kick that’ll wake up your taste buds!
- Swap the Protein: Don’t have ground beef? No problem! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even go vegetarian by using cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Pasta Variety: If you’re feeling adventurous, try different pasta shapes! Fusilli or farfalle can add a fun twist, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.
- Creamy Addition: For an even creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese when you add the cheddar. It’ll make the dish even more indulgent and luscious!
These variations are just a starting point! Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own. Whatever you choose, I promise it’ll still be a comforting bowl of goodness that everyone will love!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s chat about how to store any leftover one pot cheesy beef garlic penne because trust me, you’re going to want to savor it again! After you’ve enjoyed your meal, let any leftovers cool down a bit before storing them. This helps prevent condensation in your container, which can make things a little soggy.
To store, simply transfer the pasta into an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re anything like me, you might just find yourself sneaking spoonfuls straight from the fridge – it’s that good!
Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ve got a couple of great options. If you’re using a microwave, just pop the dish in for a minute or two, stirring halfway through. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to help bring back that creamy texture. If you prefer reheating on the stovetop, transfer the pasta to a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of liquid as needed, and stir gently until warmed through. This method really helps to maintain that delicious flavor and creamy consistency!
Whichever way you choose, just remember to keep an eye on it. You want it hot but not boiling away! And there you have it – easy storage and reheating tips to ensure you enjoy every last bite of your cheesy, garlicky goodness!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this one pot cheesy beef garlic penne? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get about this recipe, along with my answers:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is fantastic for soaking up the flavors, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may require slightly different times to become al dente.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, consider using cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based meat alternative. They’ll all work beautifully in this dish!
How long should I cook the pasta?
The penne should cook for about 10-12 minutes after you add it to the boiling broth. You want it to be al dente, so be sure to check it a minute or two before the time is up!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While I love enjoying it fresh, you can definitely prep some components in advance! You can brown the beef and prepare the broth ahead of time, then just combine everything when you’re ready to cook. It makes weeknight dinners even easier!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free pasta, this one pot cheesy beef garlic penne can absolutely be gluten-free! Just make sure to check the labels on your broth and any additional ingredients as well.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It should keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries at all! You can easily make your own blend with dried oregano, basil, and thyme if you have those on hand. Or just skip it and let the garlic and cheese shine through!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you add the garlic. You can even add a splash of hot sauce at the end for an extra kick!
Hopefully, this clears up any questions you might have! If there’s something else on your mind, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!
For more delicious recipes, check out this creamy truffle pasta or this vegetable pasta dish!
Z nadrukami
One Pot Cheesy Beef Garlic Penne: Comfort in 30 Minutes
- Całkowity Czas: 30 minutes
- Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
- Dieta: Bez Glutenu
Opis
A simple and delicious one pot cheesy beef garlic penne dish.
Składniki
- 1 pound ground beef
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instrukcje
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Add penne pasta, reduce heat, and simmer until pasta is cooked.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Uwagi
- Use any type of cheese you prefer.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be made with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- 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: 800mg
- Kwasy: 28g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 12g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 10g
- Tłuszcze trans: 1g
- Węglowodany: 50g
- Włókno: 3g
- Białko: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Słowa kluczowe: one pot cheesy beef garlic penne
