Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef – Ideal Family Dinner

There’s something magical about the combination of al dente pasta, savory garlic butter beef, and melted cheese that speaks directly to the soul. This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen or fancy culinary skills. In just 30 minutes, you’ll transform simple ingredients into a creamy, satisfying masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for casual gatherings, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The rich garlic butter sauce coats every piece of pasta, while the seasoned ground beef adds hearty satisfaction. And that melty cheese? It’s the perfect finishing touch that brings everything together in one delicious bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You’ll need ingredients that are likely already in your pantry and refrigerator. Here’s everything required to create this comfort food masterpiece:

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cheesy Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the water, then add the penne pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente – usually about 9-11 minutes. You want the pasta to have a slight bite to it as it will continue cooking slightly when combined with the sauce later.

Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water – this is a crucial step! The starchy water helps create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Drain the pasta but don’t rinse it – we want to keep that starch on the surface.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes to develop a nice brown crust on the bottom.

Break up the meat again and continue cooking until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes total. If there’s excess fat, you can drain some off, but leave a little for flavor. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t clean it!), reduce heat to medium-low and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Garlic can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on it and stir frequently.

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic butter. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer – don’t let it boil rapidly or the cream might separate. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly. Adding it a handful at a time helps it melt smoothly without clumping. Continue stirring until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.

If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. The starch in the water helps emulsify the sauce, giving it that restaurant-quality silkiness.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Add the drained pasta and chopped parsley, then gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and the beef is distributed throughout.

If needed, add more of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the perfect creamy consistency. The sauce should coat the pasta without being too runny or too thick.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the finished Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.

Serve immediately while hot and the cheese is still melty and stretchy. This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the stove when all the flavors and textures are at their peak.

Customization Ideas for Your Cheesy Penne

One of the best things about this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is how adaptable it is. Here are some delicious ways to make it your own:

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a satisfying main dish on its own, but here are some perfect pairings to complete your meal:

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The ultimate pasta companion, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini roasted with olive oil and salt make a nutritious side.

Beverage Pairings

• Red Wine: A medium-bodied Merlot or Chianti pairs beautifully with the cheesy, beefy flavors.
• White Wine: If you prefer white, try a buttery Chardonnay that complements the creamy sauce.
• For Non-Alcoholic Options: Sparkling water with lemon or a crisp apple cider works well.

Why This Cheesy Penne Will Become Your New Favorite

This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef truly embodies what comfort food is all about – simple ingredients transformed into something greater than the sum of their parts. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of al dente pasta, savory beef, and that irresistible garlic butter cheese sauce creates a dish that both kids and adults will request again and again.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy meal, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimum fuss. The best part? It’s endlessly customizable to suit your preferences and what you have on hand.

We’d love to see your version of this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef! Share your creations on Instagram or Pinterest and tag us – we might feature your dish on our page. And don’t forget to leave a comment below letting us know how you enjoyed it or what variations you tried.