Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
Salt, for boiling water
For the Garlic Butter Ground Beef:
1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (warm)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
Stir in the onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 3–5 minutes until the onion is softened.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the ground beef.
Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and beef mixture. Toss to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy and Comforting: The creamy cheese sauce makes this dish irresistibly rich.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes for busy weeknights.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies, like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Pro Tips for Success
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the beef for extra heat.
Switch the Cheese: Use mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Add Vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli or sautéed zucchini for added nutrition.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite!
