Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

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Introduction

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food dish. It combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, aromatic garlic butter, and melty cheese for a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe is perfect for weeknights when you want something filling, family-friendly, and easy to make. Inspired by Italian-American flavors, it balances creaminess, garlic richness, and a satisfying bite from penne pasta.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
  • 3 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ cup beef broth (or pasta cooking water)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
  • Extra olive oil, if needed

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions.
  • Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  1. Prepare the beef mixture
  • In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and onion, sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  • Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula.
  • Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
  • Cook until beef is browned and cooked through (about 7–8 minutes).
  1. Build the sauce
  • Pour in marinara sauce and beef broth (or reserved pasta water).
  • Simmer for 5 minutes to let flavors meld together.
  1. Combine pasta and sauce
  • Add drained penne pasta to the skillet.
  • Toss well to coat in the garlic butter beef sauce.
  1. Make it cheesy
  • Sprinkle in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  • Stir until melted and creamy. (For extra gooeyness, cover with a lid for 2 minutes to let cheese fully melt.)
  1. Garnish and serve
  • Top with chopped parsley or basil.
  • Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Methods & Variations

  • Creamier Version: Add ½ cup heavy cream or cream cheese before adding pasta.
  • Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage instead of beef.
  • Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers while sautéing.
  • Baked Version: Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with more mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

History & Background

Penne pasta has Italian roots, named after its pen-shaped ends, designed to hold onto sauces. Garlic butter beef, on the other hand, comes from American comfort food traditions where butter, garlic, and beef are often paired. This fusion dish brings together the hearty Italian-American pasta-bake culture with the richness of garlic butter flavors.

Benefits

  • High in protein from ground beef and cheese.
  • Carbohydrate energy from pasta.
  • Calcium-rich thanks to Parmesan and mozzarella.
  • Versatile meal—works for family dinners, meal prep, or potlucks.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. 6 servings)

  • Calories: 490
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbs: 45g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Calcium: 210mg

Lovers of This Dish

  • Kids love the cheesy, saucy flavor.
  • Adults appreciate the garlic butter richness.
  • Meal preppers find it reheats well for lunches.
  • Cheese lovers can’t resist the gooey layers.

Conclusion

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is not just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl. With its creamy cheese, tender pasta, and garlicky beef, it strikes the perfect balance of flavor and heartiness. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish will win over everyone at the table.

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