Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a rich and satisfying one-pan pasta dish that’s full of comforting flavors. Perfectly cooked penne pasta is tossed with savory garlic butter, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese for an easy yet indulgent dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple, fast, and incredibly flavorful. The garlic butter infuses the ground beef with rich depth, while the melty cheese and tender pasta make each bite crave-worthy. It’s a low-fuss dinner that feels comforting and hearty—perfect for family meals, busy weeknights, or anytime you’re craving something cheesy and satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Penne pasta
• Ground beef
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, finely chopped (optional)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

this recipe

1. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic (and chopped onion if using), and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Once the beef is cooked through, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded cheese and Parmesan, mixing until everything is melted and evenly coated.
6. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option
• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients
• Try different cheeses such as provolone, pepper jack, or a three-cheese blend
• Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid overcooking to keep the pasta from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, rotini, rigatoni, ziti, or any short pasta works well in this recipe.

What cheese melts best in this dish?

Mozzarella gives the best stretch, while cheddar adds sharpness. Parmesan boosts the flavor.

Can I add a sauce?

Absolutely. A splash of cream or a bit of marinara can add even more richness.

How can I make it extra creamy?

Add a few tablespoons of cream cheese or heavy cream before stirring in the cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prep the dish and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving and add a bit of milk or cheese if needed.

Is this freezer-friendly?

You can freeze it, but the texture of the pasta and cheese may change slightly. Best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

What protein alternatives can I use?

Ground sausage, ground turkey, or meatless crumbles all work great.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply skip the beef and add sautéed vegetables or a plant-based protein.

How do I avoid greasy ground beef?

Use lean ground beef or drain excess fat after browning before adding the other ingredients.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, substitute ½ to 1 teaspoon garlic powder if fresh garlic is not available.

Conclusion

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a simple yet satisfying dish that packs big flavor with minimal ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a comforting meal fast, this recipe delivers creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite. Make it once, and it’ll earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation.

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