Description
This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a creamy garlic butter sauce. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner. (Keyword: Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef)
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb ground beef
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup beef broth
Instructions
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Cook penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
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In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
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In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onion for 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
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Return beef to skillet. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes; stir to combine.
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Pour in heavy cream and beef broth. Simmer 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water if needed. Stir to coat evenly.
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Serve hot, optionally garnished with Parmesan or parsley.
Notes
Add cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan for extra richness.
Incorporate vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Adjust red pepper flakes for a spicier or milder dish.
Swap beef with turkey, chicken, or sausage as a variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop / One-pot
- Cuisine: Italian-American
