Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate. Picture this: perfectly cooked penne pasta, enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce made with savory ground beef and luscious garlic butter. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks is just heavenly! I remember the first time I made this for my family; they couldn’t get enough of it! It’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious—perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy weekends. I can practically taste it just thinking about it! You’re going to love it!
Ingredients List
- 12 oz penne pasta – This is the star of the show! Cook it until al dente for that perfect bite.
- 1 lb ground beef – I always opt for lean ground beef, but you can use whatever you have on hand. It adds that savory flavor we all love!
- 4 tbsp garlic butter – The key to that rich, garlicky goodness! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own by mixing softened butter with minced garlic.
- 2 cups shredded cheese – Go for a mix of your favorites! Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a bit of parmesan can create a melty, cheesy dream.
- 1 cup beef broth – This adds depth and moisture to the dish. Homemade or store-bought works just fine!
- Salt to taste – Just a pinch to enhance all those delicious flavors.
- Pepper to taste – A dash of freshly cracked black pepper for some added warmth and zing!
How to Prepare Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Alright, let’s get cooking! This cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef comes together quickly, and I promise it’ll be worth every delicious bite. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a piping hot meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, grab a skillet and brown the ground beef over medium heat. This should take around 5-7 minutes, so keep an eye on it and break it up as it cooks.
- Next, add in the garlic butter and stir until it’s melted and well combined with the beef. The smell will be amazing!
- Pour in the beef broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 2-3 minutes to meld those flavors.
- Now, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir everything together until the pasta is coated in that savory mixture.
- Finally, sprinkle in the shredded cheese and stir until it’s melted and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve it hot. Enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, cheesy goodness that envelops each bite of pasta.
- Savory garlic butter adds an irresistible flavor twist.
- A satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy.
- Flexible—use your favorite cheese or add veggies for extra nutrition!
Tips for Success
To make your cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef even more delightful, here are some of my favorite tips! First, if you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey or even a mix of mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly to get that nice, browned flavor.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with the cheese! A blend of mozzarella and provolone gives a fabulous melt, while a sprinkle of feta on top adds a tangy surprise. Also, if you want to sneak in some veggies, throw in some spinach or diced bell peppers when you add the garlic butter—it’s a great way to boost the nutrition without sacrificing flavor!
Finally, keep an eye on the pasta; overcooking can lead to a mushy dish, so stick to that al dente texture. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Serving Suggestions
To round out your meal, I love serving cheesy penne with a fresh side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. It adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the dish. You might also enjoy some garlic bread on the side—who can resist that? If you’re in the mood for a drink, a chilled glass of white wine pairs beautifully, or go for a sparkling water with a twist of lemon for a refreshing touch!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef is packed with flavor and nutrition! Here’s the estimated breakdown:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy your delicious meal without the guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While I love penne, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, like rotini or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What if I don’t have garlic butter? No worries! You can easily make your own by mixing regular butter with minced garlic. Or, just use plain butter and add some minced garlic when browning the beef—it’ll still taste fantastic!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and then just reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to add a splash of beef broth when reheating to keep it creamy.
How can I make this dish spicier? If you like a kick, try adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while cooking the beef. It’ll give your cheesy penne with garlic butter ground beef a delightful spicy twist!
Is it okay to add vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to toss in some fresh spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the beef for a few minutes before adding the broth.
For more delicious pasta recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Cheesy Pasta Casserole for Kids.
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