Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
Indulge in a comforting and flavorful meal with this Cheesy Penne Pasta recipe that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Add the cooked ground beef and cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter mixture. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
- Serve the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 450kcal
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Enjoy this delicious and hearty meal that brings together the rich flavors of garlic, butter, cheese, and ground beef in every bite! #CheesyPenneRecipe #ComfortFood #FamilyMeal idea
Popular Questions:
- Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter option.
- Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
- A: Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, but penne works best for holding the cheesy sauce.
- Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- A: You can add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
- Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
- A: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
- Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- A: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it in the oven just before serving.
- Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
- A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for future meals.
Helpful Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a splash of heavy cream to the cheese mixture.
- Top the dish with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy topping.
- Try different types of cheese like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.
- Drizzle with a balsamic glaze before serving for a touch of sweetness.
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Expert Secrets:
- Cook the ground beef low and slow for a more tender texture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a sharper flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less garlic and spices.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for added complexity.