Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Are you in need of a comforting, cheesy delight that brings a touch of gourmet to your dinner table without any fuss? Look no further than this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe. It’s a perfect blend of creamy cheese sauce, savory ground beef, and al dente pasta, all wrapped in the aromatic goodness of garlic and herbs. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this dish is a surefire winner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not just delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. In under 30 minutes, you can have a rich, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor. The combination of creamy cheese, robust ground beef, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Colander
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Garlic Butter Ground Beef:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (warm)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Stir in the onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 3–5 minutes until the onion is softened. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the ground beef. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and beef mixture. Toss to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting quality and flavor.
- If you find the cheese sauce too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; a pinch of extra smoked paprika can add a delightful depth.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try using different types of pasta such as fusilli or rigatoni.
- For a spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Incorporate vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for an extra nutritional boost.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While the exact nutritional content can vary, each serving generally provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, thanks to the ground beef, pasta, and cheese. For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat pasta and reducing the amount of cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the beef and cheese sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter option.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a delightful dish that promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your culinary masterpiece with friends and family. We’d love to hear about your experience, so feel free to leave a comment or snap a photo of your delicious creation!
