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Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a comforting, creamy pasta dish featuring tender penne, savory ground beef, and a rich, garlicky cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or family meal! 🍝🧄🧀
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

- Pasta & Beef:

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 3 tbsp butter

- Veggies & Seasoning:

  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

- Creamy Sauce:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- Topping & Garnish:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain any excess grease if needed.
  • Add Garlic and Onion: Push the beef to one side of the skillet and melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes.
  • Season the Beef: Stir the sautéed garlic and onion into the ground beef. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  • Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  • Combine Pasta and Beef: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss it with the garlic butter beef and sauce until fully coated.
  • Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover with a lid and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
  • Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Customization: Add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies, or swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
  • Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream to maintain the sauce's consistency.
  • Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
Keyword Cheesy penne, garlic butter pasta, ground beef pasta, creamy pasta recipe