![- 12 oz penne pasta - 1 lb ground beef - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 6 cloves garlic, minced - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Calories per serving: About 600 calories - Macronutrient breakdown: Roughly 30g protein, 40g carbs, 35g fat - Tips for healthier substitutions: Use ground turkey, low-fat cheese, or whole-grain pasta. This dish brings joy to the table with its creamy texture and rich flavors. You get a hearty meal that is easy to make and so satisfying. The penne pasta is a perfect base, holding the cheesy goodness well. The garlic butter adds a warm touch, while the ground beef gives it a protein boost. When I cook this, I love the aroma of garlic filling the kitchen. It always makes me feel at home. The mix of seasonings adds depth without overpowering the dish. The sprinkle of parsley on top makes it look fresh and bright, perfect for any dining occasion. For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. This meal is great for busy nights or when you want to impress guests with something simple yet delicious. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add 12 oz of penne pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later. In a spacious skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. When the butter is fully melted and bubbly, add 6 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously. You want it fragrant but not browned. Next, incorporate 1 lb of ground beef into the skillet. Cook the beef while breaking it into smaller pieces. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes, and the beef should brown evenly. After the beef is browned, stir in 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon of optional red pepper flakes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Once the beef is well-seasoned and cooked, reduce the heat to low. Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to mix the pasta with the garlic butter and beef. Evenly sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the mixture. Stir gently until the cheese melts, creating a creamy texture throughout. Finally, sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Remove the skillet from heat. You can serve this dish hot, and it looks great with fresh parsley on top. For the full recipe, check out the details provided earlier. To avoid overcooking your penne, follow the package instructions closely. Start timing once the water boils. Aim for al dente pasta, which should be firm to the bite. It will cook a little more when combined with the beef and sauce. Boost the flavor with fresh herbs like basil or oregano. You can also use thyme for a warm taste. For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes. If you want added richness, consider stirring in some cream or cream cheese. Serve your Cheesy Penne with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. You can also add roasted vegetables for color and nutrition. For a fun presentation, serve it in individual bowls, topped with fresh parsley and extra cheese. This makes it look special and inviting. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions. {{image_4}} You can switch up the protein in this dish. Ground turkey or chicken works well. They have a lighter taste but still pair nicely with the garlic butter. For a meat-free option, try plant-based meat. It absorbs all the flavors just like traditional meat. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty meal. Not a fan of mozzarella? You can use other cheeses like cheddar or gouda. Each cheese adds a unique flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, look for dairy-free cheese. Many brands offer great taste and melt well. You can still make this dish creamy and delicious. Want to add more veggies? Spinach or bell peppers are great choices. Just toss them in with the garlic and beef for extra nutrition. You can also mix in different sauces. A splash of marinara or pesto can change the flavor profile. Experimenting keeps the dish fun and fresh. To keep your Cheesy Penne fresh, place it in the fridge. Use airtight containers to avoid air exposure. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to cool the dish before sealing. This keeps it safe and tasty for later. Leftovers stay good for about three days. You can reheat Cheesy Penne in two ways: the microwave or the stove. For the microwave, heat in 30-second bursts. Stir after each burst to ensure even heat. On the stove, add a splash of water to a pan. Heat on low, stirring often. This prevents the dish from drying out. To freeze Cheesy Penne, let it cool completely. Then, pack it in freezer-safe containers or bags. Remove as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above after thawing. Making Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef takes about 30 minutes. You spend 10 minutes getting ready. Cooking the dish takes another 20 minutes. Yes, you can prepare some parts in advance. Cook the pasta and store it in the fridge. You can also brown the ground beef and mix in the seasonings. When you’re ready, just combine everything and melt the cheese. You have several good options for ground beef. Here’s a quick list: - Ground turkey - Ground chicken - Plant-based meat - Lentils for a vegetarian option Each choice gives a different taste and fits various diets. This blog post gives you a clear guide to making Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. We covered every step, from gathering ingredients to cooking and storing leftovers. You also learned about variations and tips to enhance flavors. Cooking should be fun and easy. By following these steps, you can create a tasty dish for any occasion. Don't hesitate to try different ingredients or flavors. Your kitchen can be a place of creativity and joy. Enjoy your cooking adventure!](https://tossedtastes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/3e477709-cc44-4812-9f59-42e3cd15f686-300x300.webp)
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Satisfy your cravings with this mouthwatering Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious and creamy pasta dish featuring savory ground beef and rich cheeses. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for a quick family dinner or a cozy night in. Click through to discover the step-by-step instructions and bring this cheesy delight to your table tonight!