This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a warm, comforting dish that everyone will love! It combines tender pasta with ground beef, all swimming in a yummy garlic butter sauce.
Trust me, the cheese makes it extra special! I like to sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking. You might just find yourself going back for seconds—or even thirds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This recipe calls for penne, but you can use any pasta shape you love! I enjoy using rigatoni too, as it holds the sauce well. Gluten-free pasta works perfectly as a substitute if that’s your preference.
Ground Beef: Ground beef is key for flavor and texture. You could swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian dish, try using lentils, mushrooms, or a meat alternative like Beyond Meat.
Cheese: The mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan creates a deliciously gooey texture. If you’re dairy-free, you can find plant-based cheeses or just use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Aim for some melty options for the best results!
Butter: Using unsalted butter gives you control over the seasoning. If you’re looking to cut back on dairy, olive oil works great as an alternative and keeps the dish rich.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Garlic and Onions?
Getting the most out of your garlic and onions is all about the cooking method. Sauté them lightly at medium heat to bring out their sweetness and flavor without burning them.
- Start with olive oil before adding the onion. Sauté until it’s soft and translucent.
- Add garlic for just a minute at the end, so it doesn’t get bitter. Stir often!
This will boost the overall flavor of your dish and create a wonderful aroma in your kitchen!
What’s the Best Way to Bake the Cheesy Penne?
When baking, it’s important to get the cheese perfectly melted and bubbly. After mixing everything, use a baking dish that’s large enough to let the cheese brown nicely.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top before baking. I like to mix different types for a flavor boost!
- Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
Let it cool slightly before serving—this helps everything set up nicely and makes it easier to serve!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
For The Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
For The Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will require about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping ingredients and boiling the pasta, and about 20 minutes cooking everything up! It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pasta:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When it’s ready, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Beef and Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it’s nice and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring to prevent it from burning.
3. Add the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take around 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning while it cooks!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Once the beef is browned, add the butter to the skillet and let it melt completely. Stir well to combine everything. Next, pour in the heavy cream (or milk) and stir gently. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Combine the Cheeses:
Turn off the heat and stir in half of each cheese: mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan. Keep mixing until everything is melted and beautifully combined!
6. Mix in the Pasta:
Now, it’s time to combine the cooked penne pasta with the cheesy beef mixture. Stir it all together so that every piece of pasta is coated in that heavenly sauce.
7. Bake the Dish:
Transfer the pasta mixture into a baking dish and top it with the remaining cheese. Bake it in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is gloriously melted and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a couple of minutes. Then, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve! Enjoy your delightful cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef!
FAQ for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will add a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the dish, while gluten-free pasta can easily be substituted without altering the taste significantly. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy texture without dairy. You may need to adjust the amount slightly to achieve your desired consistency.
How Long Do Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to help loosen the sauce!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Simply sauté them with the onions at the beginning so they cook down and blend well with the flavors of the dish. This is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients!
