Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef
If you’re on the lookout for a creamy, flavorful dish that’s sure to bring everyone around the dinner table, look no further than Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef! This mouthwatering recipe combines perfectly cooked penne pasta with tender beef bathed in a decadent garlic butter sauce, all topped with a generous helping of gooey cheese. It’s a dish that’s not only comforting but incredibly satisfying! Did you know that cheese has been a beloved ingredient in dishes across the world for centuries? It’s true! This recipe celebrates that love with every cheesy, hearty bite.
What makes Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef special is its simplicity and quick preparation time—perfect for busy families or anyone craving a delicious home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s as easy as boiling pasta and browning beef! If you’ve tried my Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, you’ll know how comforting a pasta dish can be, but Cheesy Penne takes the flavor adventure up another notch. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful recipe!
What is Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef?
So, you might be wondering, “What exactly is Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef?” Well, picture this: tender penne pasta is enveloped in creamy goodness, complemented by juicy beef perfectly sautéed in garlic butter. It’s not just a name but a promise of deliciousness! This dish is like a warm hug on a cold day, and it’s so creamy and cheesy you might just find yourself saying, “Maybe I should just eat this for breakfast too!” They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and with this dish, you might just win over everyone at the table. So why not give it a try? Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef
There are countless reasons to love Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef! Here are the three highlights that make it irresistible:
- Creamy & Cheesy Goodness: The standout feature of this dish is the unbelievably creamy sauce enriched with a medley of cheeses. Every forkful is a delightful combo of flavors that dance on your palate.
- Cost-Saving Benefits: Making this dish at home saves you money while still letting you enjoy a restaurant-quality meal. Avoiding takeout means keeping your wallet happy and your kitchen full of fresh, wholesome ingredients!
- Flavorful Ingredients: The secret to the deliciousness lies in the garlic butter sautéed beef. Combined with the rich cheeses, it elevates the taste profile to levels you wouldn’t expect from a simple pasta dish. If you enjoyed my Garlic Alfredo Penne, you’ll absolutely adore this rendition!
So, why not give this recipe a shot? Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef
Quick Overview
Making Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef is not just easy; it’s a delightful experience! This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!
Key Ingredients for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef
For this delicious dish, you’ll need a selection of ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 3 tablespoons garlic butter (you can use store-bought or make your own)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the garlic butter. Once melted, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
- Make the Sauce: Once the beef is browned, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently mix until fully coated with the sauce.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, and cover the skillet. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat, garnish with additional cheese or parsley if desired, and serve hot!
What to Serve Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef
To elevate your meal even further, consider serving Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef with a simple side salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread also makes for a wonderful pairing, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the creamy sauce. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans can add a lovely crunch to your plate. For drinks, a chilled glass of lemonade or a crisp white wine would perfectly complement the flavors.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re not a beef fan, feel free to swap it out for ground turkey or even a plant-based protein!
- Timing Adjustments: Be cautious not to overcook the pasta! It should be al dente since it will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Avoiding Common Mistakes: Keep an eye on the heat while cooking the sauce; make sure it’s on low to prevent the cream from curdling.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (a big if with how delicious this dish is!), store your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on a stove over low heat. If you wish to freeze it, it can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw first before warming through.
There you have it—a comprehensive guide to making Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef! With its creamy texture, delightful flavors, and quick preparation, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a comforting meal. So what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients and get cooking! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Beef
Ingredients
Method
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the garlic butter. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to low, pour in the heavy cream, and stir well. Add Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently mix until fully coated with the sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from heat, garnish with additional cheese or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
