Cheesy Penne With Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe

Cheesy Penne With Garlic Butter Ground Beef

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Ah, Cheesy Penne With Garlic Butter Ground Beef. Just the name makes my mouth water and takes me back to those cozy family evenings when we’d gather around the kitchen table, eagerly awaiting the delightful aroma of pasta and cheese wafting through the air. You know, there’s something special about a dish that brings warmth to the kitchen and joy to the dining table, don’t you think?

I first stumbled upon this recipe when my kids were in that phase where everything had to be cheesy, and honestly, who can blame them? Cheese is like the universal comfort food! The first time I made it, I remember my husband walking through the door, immediately drawn to the smell of garlic butter mingling with sautéed onions and ground beef. His eyes lit up, and he said, “What’s cooking, honey?” That’s when I knew this recipe was a keeper.

This dish quickly became a weeknight favorite, partly because it’s so easy to whip up in a pinch, and partly because of how it satisfies those cheesy cravings without a fuss. Plus, it’s like a grown-up version of Hamburger Helper but with so much more flavor! The kids love helping out too—especially when it comes to sprinkling that shredded cheddar over the top, watching it melt into gooey goodness.

What I love most is how versatile it is. Some nights I swap the cheddar for mozzarella, or if I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll throw in some bell peppers for an extra crunch. It’s like the recipe adapts to our mood! If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s bound to bring smiles around your dinner table, this Cheesy Penne With Garlic Butter Ground Beef is just the ticket. So, what do you say we dive into this cheesy delight together?

How to Make Cheesy Penne With Garlic Butter Ground Beef

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Ingredients:

  • 14 oz. penne pasta
  • 1.5 lbs. ground beef
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
  • 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 (14 oz.) can diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

  1. Begin by cooking your penne pasta as per the instructions on the package. Just before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. Return the drained pasta to its pot.
  2. In a large non-stick skillet set over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Sprinkle with salt and Italian seasoning. Let it cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes to develop a nice crust.
  3. Once the beef is browned underneath, break it apart and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until there’s no pink left, about 3-5 minutes more. Optionally, drain the excess grease.
  4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook, stirring every so often, until the onion is soft, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Blend in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, stirring well. Pour in the diced tomatoes and their juices, stir, and let it all heat through for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Introduce the heavy cream into the mixture, stirring for about 30 seconds. Incorporate the cheddar cheese, blending until it’s fully melted and combined.
  7. Transfer the beef mixture into the pot with your cooked pasta. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
  8. To achieve a silky sauce, mix in 2-4 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. Taste, and add more salt and pepper if it suits your palette.

Don’t Have Cheddar? Here’s What to Use Instead

If cheddar cheese isn’t available, you can swap it for mozzarella or a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for a different cheesy profile. Gouda can also lend a creamy texture if you fancy a richer taste. Remember, each cheese brings a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment with your favorites!

Preserving Cheesy Penne for Later Enjoyment

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to retain creaminess, and warm it on the stove or microwave. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve This Flavorful Pasta Dish

This cheesy penne pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the top just before serving. As for drinks, a glass of chilled white wine or iced tea can perfectly complement the rich flavors.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Pasta

To enhance flavors, consider browning the beef undisturbed initially, allowing it to develop a deep, rich taste. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a delightful kick. If you want to make it extra creamy, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese along with the cheddar.

Adding a Seasonal Spin to Cheesy Penne

In summer, toss in some fresh cherry tomatoes or zucchini for a light twist. During the fall, roasted butternut squash or pumpkin can add depth. Winter calls for hearty additions like mushrooms or kale, while spring is perfect for incorporating asparagus or peas.

Preparing Cheesy Penne With Garlic Butter Ground BeefFAQs:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with any short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli. The sauce clings well to these types, making them great alternatives. Even whole wheat pasta can work if you’re aiming to make the dish a bit healthier.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use lentils for a protein-rich vegetarian twist. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to maintain the dish’s hearty nature.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

If you’re out of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk with a touch of butter to achieve the creaminess. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or almond milk.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Sure thing! You can add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to bring some heat. A dash of hot sauce can also lift the flavors if you prefer a bit of spice in your pasta dish.

How can I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, which means it should be slightly firm when bitten. This prevents it from becoming overly soft when mixed with the sauce and reheated later. Keeping the pasta water handy also helps maintain the right texture.

What’s the best way to melt the cheese smoothly?

Make sure to add the cheese gradually, stirring continuously to ensure it melts evenly without clumping. A lower heat setting can prevent the cheese from scorching, resulting in a silky, smooth sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

Cheesy Penne With Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe

Cheesy Penne With Garlic Butter Ground Beef

This quick and delicious Cheesy Penne With Garlic Butter Ground Beef combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a satisfying family meal reminiscent of a gourmet Hamburger Helper.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • large pot
  • non-stick skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz. penne pasta
  • 1.5 lbs. ground beef
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
  • 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 14 oz. diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions
 

For Pasta:

  • Cook the penne pasta according to the instructions on the package. Before draining, save 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot in which it was cooked.

For Beef Mixture:

  • In a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Season with salt and Italian seasoning. Allow the meat to sear without stirring for 4-5 minutes until it’s browned on the bottom. Then break it up and continue cooking until fully cooked and no longer pink, around 3-5 more minutes. Drain off any excess grease if you prefer.
  • Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the ground beef. Cook them for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until they become tender.
  • Incorporate the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce into the mixture, stirring well. Add the diced tomatoes along with their juices, stirring to combine. Allow to cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
  • Mix in the heavy cream and let it cook for an additional 30 seconds. Then, add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it fully melts into the sauce.
  • Combine the meat sauce with the cooked pasta in the pot. If needed, add 2-4 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to achieve a creamier sauce. Adjust with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Keyword Garlic, Ground Beef, penne

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