Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it hits all the right notes—savory, cheesy, garlicky, and just the right amount of creamy. It’s quick to make (ready in 30 minutes), requires simple pantry staples, and always satisfies. The penne holds onto the sauce beautifully, and the beef adds that comforting, hearty element that makes it a full meal. Whether I’m cooking for my family or just want leftovers for lunch the next day, this recipe always delivers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 340 g penne pasta

• 450 g ground beef

• 45 g unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 120 ml beef broth

• 120 ml heavy cream

• 170 g shredded mozzarella cheese

• 50 g grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. I begin by cooking the penne in salted boiling water according to package instructions until it’s al dente. I drain it well and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water just in case I need to loosen the sauce later.

2. In a large skillet, I melt the butter over medium-high heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant but not browned.

3. I add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. If there’s excess fat, I drain it off.

4. I season the beef with onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if I want a little heat). I stir everything together, then pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. I let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

5. I reduce the heat to low and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. I keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

6. I add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy garlic butter sauce.

7. I finish it off with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and serve it hot while the sauce is still creamy and the cheese is perfectly melted.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 main dish servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken: I swap the beef for a lighter protein sometimes.

• Add vegetables: I stir in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for more texture and nutrition.

• Try different pasta shapes: Rotini, rigatoni, or shells also work well in this sauce.

• Make it extra cheesy: I sometimes add a little cream cheese or provolone for more richness.

• Turn it into a bake: I pour everything into a casserole dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but I prefer freshly shredded cheese—it melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.

Can I make this dish ahead?

I prepare the components ahead and reheat just before serving. The pasta may absorb some sauce over time, so I refresh it with a bit of broth or cream.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s not, unless I use the red pepper flakes. I adjust the amount to taste depending on who I’m cooking for.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, though the sauce will be lighter and less creamy. I sometimes use whole milk or half-and-half for a middle ground.

What can I serve this with?

I pair it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Beef is a simple, satisfying pasta dish that always hits the spot. It’s quick to throw together, incredibly flavorful, and packed with cheesy, garlicky goodness. Whether I’m making it for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy in every bite.

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