Description
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender penne tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with savory ground beef and melted cheeses. This easy skillet recipe combines Italian seasonings and a hint of spice for a delicious weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz penne pasta
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Season Beef: Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to evenly coat the meat.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in beef broth and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to let flavors meld and sauce reduce slightly.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet and toss well to combine with the beef mixture.
- Add Cheese: Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses until completely melted and creamy, coating the pasta nicely.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for color and freshness. Serve the dish hot.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added vegetables and nutrition.
- Double the cheese if you prefer a richer, gooier texture.
- This dish reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
