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Cheesy Ground Beef Penne Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 7 reviews
  • Author: Lucy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

A creamy, cheesy penne pasta dish combined with savory garlic butter ground beef, perfect for a comforting and flavorful dinner.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Meat and Dairy

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Pasta

  • 12 oz penne pasta

Seasonings and Broth

  • 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

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, careful not to burn it.
  3. Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  4. Season Beef: Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, ensuring the beef is evenly coated with the spices.
  5. Simmer with Broth: Pour in the beef broth and let the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to combine flavors and reduce slightly.
  6. Combine Pasta and Beef: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the pasta in the flavorful garlic butter and beef mixture.
  7. Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy, creating a rich, cheesy sauce.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top if desired, then serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a lighter option.
  • Incorporate sautéed spinach or mushrooms to add vegetables and extra flavor.
  • Increase the amount of cheese for a more indulgent, gooey texture.
  • This dish reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg