If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor, cheesy penne garlic beef is the perfect recipe to try. This dish combines tender penne pasta with savory ground beef cooked in garlic butter, all coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce that melts in your mouth. It’s a simple yet indulgent meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you want a satisfying comfort food fix.
This recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients like garlic, butter, ground beef, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, you can whip up a rich and flavorful dinner in about 30 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add veggies or spice it up to suit your taste. Let’s explore how to make this irresistible cheesy penne garlic beef from start to finish.
Why Cheesy Penne Garlic Beef is a Must-Try
- Quick and simple: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Rich and flavorful: Garlic butter and Italian seasoning infuse the beef with deep flavor.
- Creamy and cheesy: Mozzarella and Parmesan create a smooth, indulgent sauce.
- Hearty and filling: Ground beef adds protein for a balanced meal.
- Customizable: Add vegetables or spice to your liking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta and Beef
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
For Flavor and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 9–11 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. For a little kick, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes if you like. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Onion
In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until soft and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Then stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, continuing to stir until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix it into the creamy sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Penne Garlic Beef
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor punch.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to soften when mixed with the sauce.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency perfectly.
- Customize with veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Try different cheeses such as provolone or cheddar for a unique twist.
- Add heat with extra red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you like it spicy.
Variations and Add-Ins
| Variation | Description |
| Vegetarian | Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. |
| Spicy | Add extra red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage. |
| Extra Veggies | Toss in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers with garlic and onion. |
| Gluten-Free | Use gluten-free penne pasta instead of regular pasta. |
| Cheese Blend | Mix mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for richer flavor. |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette pairs perfectly for soaking up extra sauce.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare cheesy penne garlic beef ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the pasta and beef mixture in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it gently on the stove or in the oven. Add a splash of cream or broth when reheating to keep it creamy.
2. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely. Cool the cooked pasta and beef mixture completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or oven.
3. What cheese works best for this recipe?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices for a creamy, melty sauce with a nice salty depth. You can also add provolone or cheddar for extra flavor.
4. How can I make this dish lighter?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-fat option. Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, and add plenty of vegetables to bulk up the dish.
5. Can I add vegetables to cheesy penne, garlic beef?
Definitely! Sauté vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers with the garlic and onion to add flavor, texture, and nutrition.
Related Recipes
- Cheesy Chicken Garlic Wraps Recipe
- Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps Recipe
- Thai Peanut Chicken Creamy Savory Recipe
- Hot Honey Chicken Bowls Recipe
Final Thoughts
Cheesy penne garlic beef is a perfect blend of rich, savory flavors and creamy textures that make it an all-time favorite comfort food. Its quick preparation and flexible ingredients make it ideal for any night of the week. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own spin with veggies or spice, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home cooking. Enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!
Cheesy Penne Garlic Beef Recipe
Ingredients
- 250 g penne pasta
- 300 g ground beef
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and oregano, cook until browned.
- Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Toss in cooked penne pasta, combine well to coat with sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
