Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef: A Delightful Italian Comfort Food 🍝🧀✨
1. Introduction to Creamy Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef
If you’re on the hunt for a scrumptious, creamy, and satisfying pasta dish, brimming with cheesy goodness, then look no further than our Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. This dish combines perfectly cooked penne pasta – al dente, of course – with the richness of garlic butter and the savory flavor of ground beef, all enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce. It’s the ultimate cheesy penne experience! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a delightful gathering with friends, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. Maybe you are looking for dinner recipes? Check out a wide variety of dinner recipes. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking this amazing beefy cheesy penne!
2. Ingredients for Your Cheesy Penne Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering cheesy penne:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Cheesy Penne
Step 1: Cook the Penne to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Generously salt the water – this is key to flavorful pasta! Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. If you love pasta, explore other varieties like this pasta.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Garlic for Maximum Flavor
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Sauté until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. The garlic butter infuses the beef with incredible flavor, which is crucial for a delicious cheesy penne.
Step 3: Create the Ultimate Cheese Sauce for Your Penne
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir to combine with the beef and garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it’s heated, add the shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and smooth. Ensure the cheese is fully incorporated for a creamy, lump-free sauce. This cheese sauce is what truly makes this cheesy penne unforgettable! For another cheesy delight, try this Shrimp Stuffed Grilled Cheese with Garlic Bread.
Step 4: Combine, Season, and Serve Your Cheesy Penne Masterpiece
Add the cooked penne to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine everything well. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Let it cook together for a few minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. This allows the pasta to absorb the delicious cheese sauce. Serve the creamy cheesy penne garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch! If you love cheesy recipes, check out this grilled cheese burrito. This recipe is similar to the original cheesy penne with ground beef!
4. Storage Tips for Your Creamy Cheesy Penne
If you have leftovers, you can store your Creamy Cheesy Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened. A little extra cheese on top during reheating is always a good idea!
5. Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Penne Perfection
This creamy cheesy penne pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread on the side. You can also top it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or chili flakes for an extra kick! For something simpler, try a Cheesy Ham Toaster. Enjoy this tasty meal with your favorite glass of wine! A good pairing would be a light-bodied red wine or a crisp white wine. Consider adding some chicken, maybe try this chicken!
6. FAQ About Creamy Cheesy Penne with Beef
Can I use another type of pasta for this cheesy penne recipe? Yes, you can substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this cheesy penne dish vegetarian? Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with mushrooms or your favorite plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version. Consider adding some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
What can I do if the cheese sauce is too thick for my cheesy penne? If the sauce is too thick, simply add a little more heavy cream or milk to reach your desired consistency. A tablespoon at a time should do the trick.
Can I add other cheeses to this cheesy ground beef penne? Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or Gruyère. A combination of cheeses can create a more complex and flavorful sauce. For breakfast, a Loaded Veggie Cheese Omelette can start your day!
7. Nutritional Information for Cheesy Penne
Each serving of Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on your ingredient choices. The meal is rich in protein and carbohydrates, making it a hearty dish for any time of the day. You can consider also a high-protein pepperoni pizza rolls.
8. Tips for Perfect Penne with Cheese
To ensure your pasta turns out perfect, always salt your boiling water generously! Additionally, avoid overcooking the pasta to keep it al dente. Finally, make sure to reserve a cup of pasta water, which can be added to the sauce if it gets too thick. This helps the sauce cling to the pasta better for the best cheesy penne experience. You may also consider a Navajo cornbread.
9. Conclusion: Enjoy Your Creamy Cheesy Penne!
This Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is bound to become a go-to recipe for its simplicity and rich flavor. It captures the essence of comforting Italian cuisine while being easy enough for a weeknight dinner. If you want more ground beef recipes, check out the ground beef category. Grab your ingredients, and enjoy this cheesy delight with your loved ones! Enjoy this Creamy Cheesy Penne, and Happy Cooking!