After a long day, nothing soothes the soul quite like a warm, cheesy bowl of comfort. That’s exactly what you’ll find in this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef—a dish that combines creamy indulgence with effortless preparation. As I stood by the stove, the inviting aroma of garlic dancing through the air reminded me of cozy family dinners and laughter echoing through the kitchen.

This beginner-friendly recipe is not just quick, taking less than an hour from start to finish, but it also delivers that satisfying flavor that makes even the busiest weeknight feel special. With melted cheese enveloping perfectly cooked penne pasta and savory ground beef, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a comforting meal solo, this dish is the ultimate way to transform uncomplicated ingredients into something magical. Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure happiness!

Why is Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef so beloved?

Comforting warmth: This dish provides a creamy, cheesy embrace that soothes after a long day.
Beginner-friendly: You don’t need to be a chef to master this recipe; it’s simple and stress-free!
Quick to prepare: In under an hour, you can whip up a satisfying meal that feels gourmet.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, it appeals to all ages and tastes.
Versatile options: Customize with spices or veggies as you like—try adding spinach for a nutrient boost!
Elevate your meal time with this delightful dish and maybe pair it with Savory Cheesy Sausage for variety!

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Ingredients

• Ready to create some magic in the kitchen? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

For the Pasta

Penne Pasta – This sturdy pasta holds the sauce perfectly; try rigatoni or fusilli as fun substitutes.

For the Ground Beef Mixture

Ground Beef – Rich in flavor and umami; swap for ground turkey for a lighter option.
Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing garlic, adding a fruity touch; vegetable oil works too.
Garlic – Fresh garlic packs a punch of savory aroma; garlic powder can save the day if you’re short on time.
Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; kosher salt is my favorite for cooking.
Black Pepper – For a bit of warmth, freshly ground is the way to go.
Italian Seasoning – A delightful mix of herbs; dried oregano or basil can also do the trick.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional heat for spice lovers—leave it out for a milder dish.

For the Creamy Sauce

Heavy Cream – This creates that luxurious creamy texture; half-and-half is a lighter alternative.
Beef Broth – Adds depth; chicken or vegetable broth can work just as well.
Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce beautifully, bringing a nutty flavor; Pecorino Romano is a great substitute.
Mozzarella Cheese – For that gooey, cheesy top layer; swap with cheddar for a different taste.

For Garnishing

Fresh Parsley – Brightens up the dish with color and freshness; basil or chives can add a lovely twist.

This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is just the beginning of your culinary adventure!

How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for approximately 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding browning.
Cook the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, if needed.
Season the Mixture: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) over the beef. Stir well to combine and cook for another minute.
Create the Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in beef broth and heavy cream. Gently stir to combine, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne to the skillet, stirring to coat the pasta thoroughly with the creamy sauce.
Melt Parmesan: Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Mozzarella: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving, adding a lovely touch of color.

Optional: Try adding a sprinkle of extra Italian seasoning on top for added flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own with these delightful twists that will tickle your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne made from rice or quinoa for a gluten-intolerant option that still delights.
Vegetarian: Swap ground beef with lentils or chopped mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based alternative that’s just as satisfying.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a fiery flavor that ignites the senses.
Creamy Herb: Infuse flavor by mixing fresh herbs like dill or thyme into the cream sauce for an aromatic profile.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients and a vibrant color contrast.
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses; try gouda for a smoky flavor or feta for a tangy twist atop your finished dish.
Pasta Varieties: Feel free to replace penne with other pasta shapes like shells or fusilli, and watch how the sauce clings differently.
Nutty Flavor: Drizzle some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top before serving for a delightful crunch that enhances every bite.

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down to room temperature before sealing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Wrap well with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your Cheesy Penne, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream for creaminess.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results. Avoid refreezing after reheating for food safety.

What to Serve with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?

Complete your meal with delicious sides that complement the rich flavors of your cheesy creation.

Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s perfect for scooping up every bit of your creamy pasta. The hint of garlic mirrors the dish beautifully.
Caesar Salad: A fresh mix of romaine, croutons, and a tangy dressing balances the richness of the penne, adding a crunch that’s refreshing and light.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender green florets provide a nutritious contrast, bringing a touch of vibrant color and a satisfying crunch. It’s an easy way to add veggies to your meal!
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection offer a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory beef and cheesy sauce.
Wine Pairing: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a light-bodied red can enhance the flavors of your dish, making every bite feel special.
Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge your sweet tooth with this decadent dessert! The warm, gooey center pairs perfectly after the savory penne—truly an irresistible ending.

These pairings will elevate your dining experience and ensure that your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef shines even brighter at the table!

Expert Tips for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Prevent Garlic Bitterness: Keep the garlic fragrant by sautéing for just one minute—overcooking can lead to an unpleasant bitterness.
Creamy Leftovers: To keep the dish creamy when reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta.
Adjusting Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less crushed red pepper flakes and add more to taste.
Avoid Greasiness: Make sure to drain the excess fat from the ground beef before adding it to the sauce for a lighter dish.
Perfect Cheese Melting: Cover the skillet after adding the mozzarella to ensure it melts beautifully on top of your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness of garlic?
Absolutely! When selecting garlic, look for firm, blemish-free bulbs without any dark spots or sprouting shoots. Fresh garlic should feel heavy and have tightly closed skin. If it feels soft or has sprouted green shoots, it’s best to avoid it as it may impart a bitter flavor.

How should I store leftovers of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness. If you’re enjoying it later, reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.

Can I freeze Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Very! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, do a double layer of wrapping: first with plastic wrap, then with aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your sauce turns out too thick, you can easily adjust it. Simply add a little bit of beef broth or milk, a tablespoon at a time, while gently stirring over low heat until the desired consistency is reached. This will help create that creamy texture we all love without losing flavor!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be mindful of the cheeses if lactose sensitivity is a concern; lactose-free cheese can be a great alternative. For gluten-free diets, you can use gluten-free penne options. Also, if you’re making this for pets, remember that garlic is toxic to dogs, so keep this dish to the humans in your household.

How long will my Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef leftovers keep?
Your leftovers, when stored correctly in the fridge, should be good for about 3 days. For long-term storage, freezing is great for up to 3 months. Just remember to ensure the dish is completely cooled down before packing it away to maximize freshness!