Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef! This dish is an absolute game-changer for dinner. It’s got that creamy, cheesy goodness that just hugs the pasta perfectly, and the garlic butter? Wow, it adds such an incredible depth of flavor! Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t have hours to spare in the kitchen.
This recipe has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy family dinners growing up. My mom would whip it up when we needed a quick meal that still felt indulgent. I still get that same warm feeling every time I make it, and I can’t help but smile when I see everyone diving in for seconds. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a favorite in your house too!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz penne pasta – This is the star of the dish, so grab your favorite brand and get ready for a cheesy delight!
- 1 lb ground beef – I like to use lean ground beef for a richer flavor without too much grease, but feel free to choose your preferred type.
- 4 tbsp garlic butter – This is where the magic happens! The garlic butter brings an irresistible aroma and taste that makes this dish sing.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor, or go mild if you prefer something a bit softer.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese – This adds a wonderful nutty flavor that complements the cheddar beautifully.
- Salt to taste – Always a must! It enhances the overall flavor, so don’t skip this step.
- Pepper to taste – A little freshly cracked pepper can elevate the dish even more.
- Fresh parsley for garnish – This isn’t just for looks; it adds a fresh pop of flavor that ties everything together!
How to Prepare Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
- First things first, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. You’ll want it al dente, so keep an eye on those last couple of minutes! Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside for now.
- While your pasta’s cooking, grab a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s beautifully browned, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Don’t forget to break it up with a spatula as it cooks! Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat.
- Now, let’s bring in that glorious garlic butter! Add it to the skillet with the ground beef and stir until it’s melted and everything is coated in that heavenly garlic goodness.
- Next, toss the cooked penne pasta right into the skillet with the beef and garlic butter. Give it a good mix to ensure every piece of pasta is enveloped in that rich flavor.
- Now for the cheesy part! Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated parmesan cheese, allowing them to melt and combine with the pasta. This should take just a couple of minutes—keep stirring until it’s all creamy and delicious!
- Finally, season your cheesy penne with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—taste as you go! You want it to be just right!
- Once everything is perfectly mixed and seasoned, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This little touch not only looks fabulous but also adds a burst of freshness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This cheesy penne can be on your table in just 30 minutes—perfect for those nights when you need something delicious without the fuss!
- Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic butter and cheeses creates a flavor explosion that’s absolutely irresistible. Each bite is a comforting hug!
- Customizable: Feel free to throw in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers to sneak in some extra nutrition. It’s a great way to make it your own!
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love cheesy pasta, and this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together!
- Leftovers for Days: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), they reheat beautifully, making for a tasty lunch the next day!
Tips for Success
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: This is super important! Cooking your penne al dente means it’ll hold its shape and texture when you mix it with the beef and sauce. Plus, it’ll soak up all that yummy flavor without turning mushy!
- Use Fresh Garlic Butter: If you can, make your own garlic butter by mixing softened butter with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. It’s a game-changer! But if you’re short on time, store-bought works just fine too.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: I know it’s tempting to grab pre-shredded cheese, but grating your own gives you a creamier melt, and it melts better. Plus, it’s fresher!
- Taste as You Go: Don’t forget this step! Seasoning is key, and tasting along the way helps you adjust to your preference. You want that perfect balance of flavors!
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together even more, making each bite even tastier!
Variations of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
This cheesy penne is so versatile, and I love switching things up based on what I have on hand or my mood! Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Different Cheeses: Swap out the cheddar for mozzarella for a gooey, stretchy texture, or try a blend of gouda and provolone for a smoky twist. You can even mix in some blue cheese for a bold flavor! The cheesy possibilities are endless!
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some extra nutrition by tossing in sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or even broccoli. Just add them to the skillet after the beef is browned and let them cook until tender before mixing in the pasta. It’s a great way to make it a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor!
- Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef while it cooks. It’ll give the dish a nice kick that spicy food lovers will adore!
- Herbed Up: For a fresh, vibrant flavor, try adding some chopped fresh basil or oregano right before serving. It elevates the dish and gives it a lovely aroma, making it feel even more special!
- Meat Alternatives: You can easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute that mimics the texture of beef!
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own. The best part about cooking is experimenting, so don’t hesitate to mix and match until you find your perfect cheesy penne combination!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Okay, so let’s talk about what to do with those delicious leftovers, because trust me, you’ll want to save every last bite of this cheesy goodness! First off, let your cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef cool down a bit before you store it. You don’t want to trap steam in the container, which can make it a bit soggy.
Once it’s cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. I recommend labeling the container with the date, so you know when to enjoy it by!
Now, when you’re ready to reheat, there are a couple of methods to bring it back to life. The microwave is quick and easy—just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s heated through. Just a little note: the cheese might not be as melty as it was fresh, but it’ll still taste amazing!
If you have a bit more time, I love reheating it on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water or a bit more garlic butter to a skillet over medium heat and toss in your leftovers. Stir it gently until everything is warmed up and the cheese is nice and gooey again. This method helps keep the pasta from drying out and really revives that creamy texture!
And there you have it—simple storage and reheating tips to ensure your cheesy penne stays as delightful as the first time you made it. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! While I’m all about enjoying food and the flavors it brings, it’s good to have an idea of what’s in your delicious cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 35g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use or any variations you make to the recipe. If you’re tracking your intake for dietary reasons, I always recommend double-checking with your specific ingredients. But either way, this cheesy dish is packed with flavor and a good dose of comfort!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is my go-to for this cheesy dish, you can use any pasta shape you love—rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti work great. Just keep an eye on the cooking time according to the package instructions!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead! If you want to make this cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef in advance, just follow the recipe up to the point of mixing in the cheese. Store it in the fridge, then finish with the cheese and reheat when you’re ready to serve. It’s such a time-saver!
What can I serve with this dish?
This cheesy penne is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to amp it up, serve it with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread to soak up all that deliciousness. You could even pair it with some roasted vegetables for a colorful plate!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It should last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier!
What if I don’t have garlic butter?
No worries at all! If you don’t have garlic butter, you can easily make your own by mixing softened butter with minced garlic and a bit of salt. Alternatively, just use regular butter and add fresh minced garlic to the skillet when you cook the beef. It’ll still be tasty!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef in 30 Minutes
- Temps Total: 30 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
This dish features cheesy penne pasta combined with garlic butter and ground beef for a flavorful meal.
Ingrédients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 tbsp garlic butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add garlic butter to the skillet and stir until melted.
- Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet and mix well.
- Stir in cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust cheese quantities based on preference.
- Can add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Best served hot.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 20 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 30g
- Graisses Saturées: 15g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 10g
- Les Gras Trans: 1g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 50g
- La fibre: 3g
- La protéine: 35g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 80mg
Mots-clés: cheesy penne, garlic butter, ground beef, pasta
