This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef is a hearty dish that combines pasta and tender beef in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a comforting meal that the whole family will love!
Who can resist pasta smothered in cheese? I always sneak in extra cheese just to make it even more cheesy and delightful! 😄 Plus, it’s quick to make, perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This is the main pasta of the dish. If you don’t have penne, other shapes like rigatoni or farfalle work well too. Just choose something sturdy that holds the sauce nicely.
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for less grease, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Veggie crumbles can be a great choice for a meat-free version.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal to control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a nice meltiness, while Parmesan adds a sharp bite. If you’re looking for alternatives, try cheddar or a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich, but you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk with a thickener for a lighter version. Just make sure to add a bit of cornstarch or flour to thicken it up!
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Pasta?
Cooking pasta is simple, but there are a few tips to get it just right. The key is to salt your water generously! This adds flavor to the pasta itself.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add about 1-2 tablespoons of salt.
- Add the penne and stir to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente (firm to the bite).
- Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining—you can use it later to adjust your sauce’s consistency.
With these tips and insights, your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef is sure to be a hit! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Beef:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or mixed herbs)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to impress guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite), which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Browning the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked—this should take around 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside for later.
3. Making the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted, throw in the minced garlic and cook it for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. If you’re feeling a bit spicy, this is a great time to add the red pepper flakes!
4. Creating the Creamy Base:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally. You want it to warm up and start thickening slightly.
5. Adding the Cheeses:
Add the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the Italian seasoning. Stir well to make sure the cheese melts into the sauce and it starts to thicken nicely.
6. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix it into the cheesy sauce. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed.
7. Tossing the Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy garlic butter beef sauce.
8. Serving:
Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while it’s warm and gooey. Enjoy your rich and comforting Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef!
FAQ for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat penne adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, while gluten-free penne is a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cooking times may vary slightly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, you can add more red pepper flakes or include diced jalapeños or serrano peppers when cooking the beef. For an extra kick, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce to the finished dish!
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk with a teaspoon of flour to thicken it. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Cheesy Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
