Indulge in Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef Today!

Get ready to indulge in a comforting and flavor-packed pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings! Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a delightful fusion of creamy sauce, melted cheese, and savory ground beef that comes together in one irresistible meal. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend feast with family and friends.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Preparing this delectable Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef dish is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to bring this comforting pasta masterpiece to life:

Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to be combined with the savory sauce.

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss it gently to coat each noodle evenly with the delectable cheesy sauce. The flavors will meld together, creating a truly indulgent and satisfying dish.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef warm, garnished with extra shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Get ready for your taste buds to be swept away by the rich, creamy, and utterly comforting flavors of this irresistible pasta creation.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is its versatility. You can easily customize this dish to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Vegetable Addition: Sauté spinach, bell peppers, or diced tomatoes and add them to the dish for extra nutrition and color.
• Protein Swap: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives to create a vegetarian or vegan-friendly version.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend of your favorite cheeses, to find your perfect flavor combination.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dollop of your favorite hot sauce to give the Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef a delightful kick of heat.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the rich and creamy flavors of the Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, consider serving it with some delicious side dishes. A fresh, crisp salad or a slice of warm, garlic-infused bread would make the perfect accompaniment. For beverages, a glass of your favorite red wine or a refreshing iced tea would be a lovely pairing.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, you’re in luck! This dish stores and reheats beautifully. Simply transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either microwave the pasta in short bursts, stirring occasionally, or warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to help revive the creamy texture.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef provides approximately:

• Calories: 620
• Fat: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 32g

While this dish is undoubtedly delicious, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. To make it a bit healthier, you can consider using low-fat cream or reduced-fat cheese, or incorporating more vegetables into the recipe.

FAQs about Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Can I put ground beef in pasta sauce?

Absolutely! Ground beef is a fantastic addition to pasta sauces, as it adds heartiness and savory flavor. In the case of Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, the ground beef is cooked and incorporated directly into the creamy cheese sauce, creating a delicious all-in-one pasta dish.

How do you melt cheese over ground beef?

To melt cheese over ground beef, simply follow the steps in the Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe. After cooking the ground beef, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt and blend seamlessly into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture.

What sauce goes with penne pasta?

Penne pasta is a versatile shape that pairs well with a variety of sauces. In the case of Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, the pasta is coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce made with heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Italian seasoning. This sauce complements the penne pasta perfectly, resulting in a comforting and flavorful dish.

How do you thicken garlic butter sauce for pasta?

To thicken the garlic butter sauce for Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, the key is to reduce the sauce over low heat. After adding the heavy cream and cheese, continue to stir the mixture until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce reaches your desired thickness. You can also try adding a small amount of cornstarch or flour mixed with a little water to help further thicken the sauce if needed.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• One Pot Creamy Cajun Meatball Pasta
• Creamy Garlic Sauce Steak

Get ready to indulge in a comforting and flavorful pasta dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy the Creamy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef and let the rich, creamy goodness transport you to a delicious culinary experience!

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