There’s something truly irresistible about a skillet packed with melty cheese, aromatic garlic, and hearty ground beef, all hugged by perfectly cooked pasta. The Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground BeefIngredients recipe is exactly that: the kind of comfort food that makes you sigh with happiness after each forkful and sends everyone clamoring for seconds. In this one-pan wonder, rich garlic butter, creamy cheese sauce, and a touch of spice marry ground beef and penne to pure perfection. This is a dish you’ll want on repeat for busy weeknights or family dinners—it’s bold, creamy, and deeply satisfying.

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground BeefIngredients Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how this impressive dish comes together from a simple lineup of staples. Each ingredient in Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground BeefIngredients plays a key role, whether it’s delivering extra creaminess, lively color, or a dash of heat. Here’s everything you’ll want to have ready.

Penne Pasta: This classic shape traps the cheesy sauce in every bite—use whole wheat or gluten-free if that suits you best.
Olive Oil: Helps brown your beef for deeper flavor and keeps things from sticking.
Ground Beef: Rich and hearty, it soaks up every delicious spice and makes the dish filling.
Fresh Garlic: Four cloves give the sauce incredible depth—don’t skimp!
Garlic Powder: Provides a mellow, round garlic flavor to echo the fresh kind.
Onion Powder: Adds subtle sweetness and pairs beautifully with all the savory notes.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Just enough heat to keep things lively without overpowering the dish.
Black Pepper: Brightens up the flavors and balances the dairy richness.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out all those savory flavors.
Unsalted Butter: Creates that lush garlic butter base—unsalted lets you control the seasoning.
Heavy Cream: Lends silkiness and makes the sauce irresistibly thick and smooth.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey strings, stretching through every forkful.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.
Chopped Fresh Parsley: Brings a fresh pop of color and subtle herb flavor to finish.

How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground BeefIngredients

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by bringing a generous pot of salted water to a boil. The salt is your friend here—it seasons the pasta from the inside out and gives it flavor. Add the penne and cook until al dente (just tender but with a little bite), usually about 9 to 11 minutes. Before draining, scoop out about half a cup of the pasta water; this starchy liquid can work magic in the sauce later. Drain the rest and set the cooked pasta aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta cooks, heat your largest skillet over medium-high and pour in the olive oil. Once shimmering, crumble in the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the beef as it cooks, stirring now and then, until every bit is browned and no pink remains—about 5 to 7 minutes. This process brings out a toasty, savory flavor that’s the backbone of Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground BeefIngredients.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Spices

When your beef is perfectly brown, scatter in the minced garlic. Stir for another minute or two—just until fragrant, keeping a close eye so the garlic doesn’t burn. Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Give everything a thorough stir and let it sizzle for another minute. Toasting the spices like this enhances their flavors and gives the dish that signature warmth.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Turn the heat down to medium-low and add the butter to the skillet. Let it melt into the beef and spices, creating a glossy, fragrant base. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to blend everything together. Let the mixture bubble softly for 3 to 4 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens just slightly.

Step 5: Create the Cheesy Magic

Now for the best part: add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. Stir as the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth, gooey, and absolutely luscious. If the sauce feels too thick or sticky, splash in a bit of your reserved pasta water—just a tablespoon at a time—until it’s silkily coating your spoon.

Step 6: Toss Together and Finish

Add your cooked, drained penne pasta directly into the sauce. Gently fold everything together so every tube is blanketed in that creamy, cheesy mixture. Once combined, turn off the heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and if you’re feeling extra, a little more Parmesan right over the top. Now your Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground BeefIngredients is ready for its big reveal.

How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground BeefIngredients

Garnishes

Don’t skip those finishing touches! Fresh parsley brightens every serving, and an extra grating of Parmesan cheese adds a gorgeous snowy finish and extra savory kick. You might also add a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or even a few chili flakes if you like more heat.

Side Dishes

To round out your plate, try serving Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground BeefIngredients with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up all the glorious sauce left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your presentation by spooning the penne into shallow pasta bowls, piling it high for visual impact. For a dinner party, garnish each serving with a twist of fresh parsley, a pinch of chili flakes, and shaved Parmesan. If you’re serving a crowd, bake the finished pasta in a casserole dish with extra cheese on top until golden.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground BeefIngredients stores beautifully! Simply scoop any extras into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

Want to prep ahead? Let the pasta cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, and freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring often to keep the sauce creamy and prevent sticking. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese and parsley just before serving for a freshly made feel.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne holds the sauce fantastically, you can swap in rigatoni, ziti, rotini, or even shells. Just make sure to cook any substitute al dente so it keeps its texture under the cheesy sauce.

Can I make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground BeefIngredients ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes! You can assemble the recipe right up to combining the sauce and pasta, then store it in the refrigerator unbaked. Reheat gently, stir well, and add fresh parsley and cheese just before serving for the best taste.

What if I don’t eat beef—can I substitute the protein?

Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or a plant-based meat alternative all work well. Adjust seasoning to taste, as leaner meats might need a touch more salt or spice.

How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?

The crushed red pepper flakes offer a subtle warmth without turning the dish fiery. If you love a spicy kick, feel free to add more; if not, you can reduce or omit them entirely.

Can I add vegetables to Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground BeefIngredients?

Vegetables are a fantastic addition! Try stirring in sautéed spinach, peas, cooked broccoli, or roasted bell peppers for an extra pop of color and nutrition. Add them after browning the beef, just before you make the sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground BeefIngredients has become my go-to comfort meal—it’s simple, dazzlingly good, and wildly satisfying every single time. If you’re looking to wow your family or indulge your own pasta cravings, this is the cheesy, garlicky skillet supper for you. I’d love to hear how you make it yours!