Description
This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a comforting, one-pan pasta dish that’s packed with flavor. Tender penne pasta is combined with savory ground beef, coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, and loaded with melted cheese for the ultimate cheesy goodness. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually 9-11 minutes) until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. - Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat from the skillet. - Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the onions are softened. - Combine the Sauce and Pasta:
Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Pour in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. - Add the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy. - Combine Pasta and Beef:
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated in the cheesy garlic butter sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors. - Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If you prefer a leaner version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg