Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef 4 Servings Easy Delicious

Introduction to Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Pasta has a special way of bringing people together, and when you combine it with melted cheese, savory ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce, you’ve got a dish that’s simply irresistible. Introducing Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef – the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and delight your taste buds.

Table of Contents

The Comfort of Cheesy Pasta Dishes

There’s just something about a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that warms the soul. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or serving it up for a family gathering, this Cheesy Penne recipe offers the perfect blend of indulgence and comforting flavors. The tender penne pasta is smothered in a luscious sauce made with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What sets this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe apart is the addition of the savory, seasoned ground beef and the rich, garlic-infused butter sauce. The combination of the tender pasta, the beefy filling, and the creamy, garlicky sauce creates a truly mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients Overview

Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Penne

To make this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients. First, you’ll need 12 ounces of penne pasta, which provides the base for the dish. The ground beef, at 1 pound, adds the savory, hearty element. You’ll also need 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 4 cloves of minced garlic, and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to create the flavorful garlic butter sauce.

Optional Ingredients and Variations

While the core ingredients are essential, you can also customize this recipe to your liking. Consider adding 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to enhance the overall seasoning. For a creamier texture, you can stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. And for a pop of freshness, garnish the dish with 1/4 cup of chopped parsley.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Penne Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to be combined with the other ingredients.

Preparing the Ground Beef

In a skillet, cook the 1 pound of ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving the beef ready for the next step.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Stir in the 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, followed by the 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.

Combining Ingredients

To the skillet with the garlic butter sauce, add the cooked and drained penne pasta, the browned ground beef, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. If you’d like to make the dish extra creamy, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Toss everything together until the cheese is melted and the ingredients are well combined.

Serving Suggestions

Transfer the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef to a serving dish and garnish it with the optional 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, if desired. Serve this comforting pasta dish hot, and enjoy the perfect balance of cheesy, beefy, and garlicky flavors in every bite.

Nutritional Information

Calories and Macronutrients

This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe is a hearty and satisfying dish, with approximately 650 calories per serving. It provides a balance of macronutrients, with around 40 grams of carbohydrates, 40 grams of protein, and 35 grams of fat.

Healthier Substitutes

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, you can consider using a leaner ground beef or even ground turkey. You can also opt for reduced-fat or low-fat cheese varieties, and substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative, such as half-and-half or evaporated milk.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Complementary Side Dishes

This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef pairs beautifully with a simple garden salad or a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus. The creamy, cheesy pasta dish also complements a crusty garlic bread or a side of garlic knots perfectly.

Recommended Wine Pairings

For a delightful wine pairing, consider a medium-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot or a Cabernet Sauvignon. The bold, fruity flavors of these wines will nicely complement the richness of the cheesy, garlicky pasta dish.

Perfect Occasions to Serve This Dish

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is an excellent choice for family dinners, cozy weeknight meals, or even special occasions when you want to impress your guests. Its comforting and satisfying flavors make it a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to leave everyone feeling happy and fulfilled.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Best Practices for Storage

If you have any leftovers of this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to the container.

Reheating Tips to Maintain Quality

To reheat the leftovers, you can either warm them up in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or place the dish in the microwave and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through. If the pasta seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of milk or cream to help restore the creamy texture.

FAQs about Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta for this recipe. While penne is a great choice, you can also try using other shapes like rotini, fusilli, or even macaroni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef dish can be frozen for future enjoyment. Simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it using the methods mentioned earlier.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

If you prefer not to use ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey or even crumbled Italian sausage. Both of these options will provide a similar savory and satisfying element to the dish.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe vegetarian, you can simply omit the ground beef and instead use a plant-based protein, such as crumbled tofu or sautéed mushrooms. Adjust the seasonings as needed to complement the vegetarian protein you choose.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Chicken Alfredo
• Beef Stroganoff
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Conclusion

With its irresistible combination of cheesy penne, savory ground beef, and a rich, garlic-infused butter sauce, this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe is a true comfort food masterpiece. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight meal or looking to impress your loved ones, this dish is sure to delight. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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