There’s a certain warmth that fills the kitchen when the sizzling sound of garlic and butter invites you to create something special. As I stirred up this comforting Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, memories of cozy family dinners flood my mind. The delightful blend of tender penne and savory ground beef, smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, transforms an ordinary weeknight into an indulgent experience.

With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this dish isn’t just for the hungry—it’s a celebration of simplicity and comfort that everyone will love. Perfect for those evenings when you crave a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this cheesy sensation comes together effortlessly. And trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s destined to become a favorite at your table. Let’s dive into making this delightful recipe that promises to warm both your heart and home!

Why will you love Cheesy Penne?

Comforting Taste: The Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef offers a rich, savory flavor that warms your heart and fills your belly.

Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or try using ground turkey for a lighter option—this dish fits your culinary creativity!

Perfect Texture: The creamy cheese envelops the penne and beef, delivering a delightful mouthfeel that you won’t soon forget.

Cheesy Penne Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Penne Pasta – Provides structure and serves as the base of the dish; substitute with rigatoni or ziti if needed.

For the Beef
• Ground Beef – Adds protein and a rich flavor to the dish; can be substituted with ground turkey for a leaner option.

For the Flavor
• Garlic – Enhances flavor with a pungent, aromatic profile; fresh is recommended, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps in sautéing the garlic; use unsalted for better flavor control.

For the Creamy Sauce
• Cheese (such as Cheddar and Mozzarella) – Provides creaminess and melting texture; Monterey Jack can be an alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the perfect blend in your Cheesy Penne.

How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Cook 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 around 10-12 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Brown Ground Beef: In a spacious skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until evenly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease using a colander.
Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the browned beef in the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
Combine Ingredients: Reduce heat to low, and stir in the drained penne pasta along with the shredded cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce that envelops the pasta and beef, approximately 2-3 minutes.
Season: Taste your dish and sprinkle in salt and pepper, adjusting to your preference. Give it a final stir for even seasoning before serving.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the ground beef and garlic mixture up to 3 days in advance; simply cool it completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. The cooked penne pasta can also be made up to 24 hours ahead. To maintain quality, toss the pasta with a little olive oil before refrigerating to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the beef mixture in a skillet, add the prepared pasta, and mix in the cheese until melted and creamy. This way, you’ll have a flavorful, comforting dish with minimal effort on your busy weeknights!

Tips for the Best Cheesy Penne

Cook Pasta Al Dente: To ensure the Cheesy Penne has the right texture, cook pasta until just firm. Overcooking can lead to mushiness in the final dish.
Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a sharper taste than garlic powder, enriching the flavor of your Cheesy Penne. Don’t skimp on this key ingredient!
Grease Drainage: After browning the ground beef, properly drain the fat. Excess grease can make your sauce greasy rather than creamy.
Choose Quality Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded options, giving your sauce that perfect creamy consistency.
Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Always taste before adding salt and pepper at the end. This ensures your Cheesy Penne is perfectly seasoned without being overpowering.

Storage Tips for Cheesy Penne

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Place the Cheesy Penne in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before sealing.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

What to Serve with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these delightful pairings that enhance the comfort of your pasta dish.

Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavor of garlic bread complements the richness of the cheesy penne, perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
Side Salad: A bright, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the heaviness of the pasta. Think of each bite as a delightful contrast!
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables, such as zucchini and bell peppers, bring a lovely charred flavor and colorful presentation to your plate. They effortlessly add nutrition and a beautiful pop of color.
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool creaminess of coleslaw provides a refreshing side that enhances the meal’s overall richness. It’s as comforting as it is crunchy!
Herbed Rice: Fluffy herbed rice is a mild and wholesome alternative that absorbs the flavors of your dish without overpowering it. It brings a nice lightness to your hearty meal.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing, bubbly drink will cleanse your palate between indulgent bites, making each mouthful of Cheesy Penne taste even better!
Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, rich and fudgy chocolate brownies provide a sweet conclusion to your meal, perfectly offsetting the savory main course’s flavors.

Cheesy Penne Variations

Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish and make it your own!

Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for turkey to lighten the meal without sacrificing flavor.
Italian Sausage: Use spicy or sweet Italian sausage for a flavor boost and a delightful twist.
Veggie Delight: Add chopped spinach or broccoli to the mix for a colorful, nutritious touch.
Creamy Spin: Incorporate cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream into the sauce for extra richness.
Flavorful Add-Ins: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of flavor.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a little heat.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the aromatic profile of the dish.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Parmesan for a unique taste experience.

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right penne pasta?
Absolutely! When selecting penne, look for pasta that has a smooth surface and a uniform color—avoid any with dark spots or cracks. If you only have access to other short pasta types like rigatoni or ziti, those make great substitutes while still holding onto that cheesy goodness!

What is the best way to store leftovers?
For optimal freshness, store your Cheesy Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the pasta cool down completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

Can I freeze Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?
Very! To freeze, transfer the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Ensure it’s airtight to prevent freezer burn, and label it with the date. This cheesy delight can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture.

What should I do if my cheese isn’t melting properly?
No worries! If your cheese isn’t melting as desired, it could be due to the type of cheese used—freshly grated cheese is recommended for better texture. To fix, try returning the pan to low heat and adding a splash of milk while stirring until you achieve that smooth, creamy sauce. Alternatively, allow the dish to sit covered for a few minutes off the heat; this can sometimes help the cheese melt more thoroughly.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! This Cheesy Penne can cater to various dietary preferences. For a gluten-free option, substitute the penne with gluten-free pasta. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can use plant-based cheese and vegan butter instead. Just ensure that your ground beef or turkey is without additives for those with meat allergies, and always double-check the labels for any potential allergens.

How can I enhance the nutritional value of this dish?
Very! To add more nutrition, consider incorporating diced vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli during the sautéing process with the garlic. This not only boosts the dish’s health benefits but also adds vibrant color and taste! You can also opt for lean ground turkey to reduce fat content while still keeping that savory richness.