Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a cozy, crave-worthy dinner, look no further than Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. This dish is the ultimate comfort food trifecta: perfectly cooked pasta, savory ground beef with a garlic-kissed butteriness, and a generous blanket of gooey cheeses. Every bite delivers molten cheese, rich ground beef flavor, and that irresistible trio of garlic, Italian spices, and fresh herbs. Whether you’re cooking for family or hungry friends, this recipe is pure weeknight magic—quick, hearty, and loaded with everything you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together with simple, dependable ingredients you probably already have on hand. Each element plays an important role, from the pasta that soaks up the luscious sauce to the cheeses that bring the signature creamy finish to every forkful.

• 12 oz penne pasta: Sturdy, tube-shaped penne holds onto the cheesy sauce with every bite.
• 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean or regular—both add hearty flavor and protein.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Delivers a silky start for sautéing garlic and browning beef.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star aromatics, infusing the base with irresistible garlicky richness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons everything perfectly.
• 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds warmth and just a little bite to balance the creaminess.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs brings classic Italian flavors to the dish.
• 1⁄2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick that’s completely customizable.
• 2 cups heavy cream: This makes the sauce extra rich and luxuriously smooth.
• 1 cup beef broth: Boosts both moisture and meaty depth in the sauce.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into an irresistible cheesy topping.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brings a pop of color and freshness right at the end.

How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the instructions on the package, giving it a good stir now and then to prevent sticking. You want it tender, but still with a little bite (al dente). Drain and set aside—the starches in the pasta help the sauce cling later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic in Olive Oil

In a large, deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and let the aroma fill your kitchen as it sizzles, stirring for about a minute until just golden. Watch closely so the garlic doesn’t brown too much; it should be fragrant and softened.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Let it sear and brown for best flavor—no need to rush! After about five to seven minutes, the beef should be thoroughly browned. If there’s excess grease, carefully drain it off for a lighter finish.

Step 4: Season the Beef

Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. Stir well so the herbs and spices are evenly distributed, coating the beef with savory, bold layers of flavor. This step is where Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef really starts coming alive.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Broth

Lower the heat to medium, then pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring as you go. This transforms the beef into a luxuriously creamy, savory sauce that’s hard to resist. Let it bubble gently for a few minutes so the sauce thickens just a bit—perfect for hugging every piece of penne.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the drained penne straight into the skillet. Stir well until every noodle is lushly coated in the garlic butter ground beef sauce. This is the part where you start to see (and smell!) the magic that makes Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef so special.

Step 7: Melt in the Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle in the Parmesan, stirring until it melts seamlessly into the sauce. The cheese helps thicken everything up and adds a luxurious nuttiness—plus, that wonderful stringy pull you crave in a cheesy recipe like this one.

Step 8: Top with Mozzarella and Cover

Scatter mozzarella cheese over the pasta mixture, spreading it evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes. The mozzarella melts into bubbly, golden bliss, crowning your dish with creamy goodness. Uncover and marvel at that irresistible cheese pull!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and a pop of green. Now, prepare your tastebuds—this is Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef at its most decadent and comforting.

How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Garnishes

Finish your masterpiece with a flurry of freshly chopped parsley for vibrant color and subtle herbaceous flavor. For extra flair, try a sprinkle of additional Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes across the top. A little cracked black pepper also looks beautiful and adds an aromatic touch.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it’s heavenly with a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. Warm, crusty bread is also ideal for mopping up every last bit of cheesy sauce—no judgment if you use garlic bread for double the garlic goodness!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, serve Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef in individual baking dishes with an extra sprinkle of cheese broiled on top. Or, bake it casserole-style for family gatherings. If you want to impress, plate it with a garnish of microgreens or a roasted tomato half for a restaurant-worthy look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day! Just be sure it’s completely cooled before sealing for optimal freshness.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well—perfect if you like to meal prep or have emergency comfort food on hand. Let the pasta cool, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. For best texture, you can undercook the pasta slightly before assembling and freezing.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first. Stir halfway through reheating for even warmth and melty goodness throughout.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for catching the sauce, any short pasta like rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli works well in Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. You can even use gluten-free pasta if you wish—just watch the cooking time.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can work in place of heavy cream, though the sauce will be a bit less rich. For a dairy-free option, try unsweetened oat or soy cream and vegan cheese.

Is it necessary to use both Parmesan and mozzarella?

Using both cheeses gives you the best flavor and gooey texture. Parmesan adds depth and saltiness, while mozzarella brings luxurious meltiness. However, if you only have one on hand, use what you love—the dish will still be crave-worthy!

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers make delicious additions to Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. Just cook any veggies along with the beef so they soak up all that garlicky flavor.

How do I keep my sauce from getting too thick?

If the sauce over-thickens, just whisk in a splash of beef broth or cream until it loosens to your liking. The key is to add liquid slowly and stir well, so you maintain that luscious, creamy consistency.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that’s equal parts indulgence and heartwarming comfort, Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is truly tough to beat. Each forkful bursts with cheesy, garlicky flavor you’ll want to savor again and again. Give it a try, then get ready to add it to your regular dinner rotation—I promise it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Print