Introduction
This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food — rich, savory, and satisfying. It brings together tender penne pasta, a flavorful garlic butter sauce, juicy ground beef, and melty cheese in one indulgent, crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for leftovers that reheat beautifully, this dish delivers on flavor and heartiness.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
This dish is a fusion of Italian-American flavors, inspired by classic baked pasta dishes and skillet meals. While traditional Italian pasta recipes lean on simplicity and finesse, American adaptations often embrace bold, rich elements like cheddar, butter, and seasoned ground beef. This recipe exemplifies weeknight American comfort cuisine, where budget-friendly ingredients meet crave-worthy results. It’s a modern staple for busy kitchens, drawing inspiration from casseroles and pasta bakes beloved across North America.
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Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4–6)
Pasta & Protein:
12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
Garlic Butter Sauce:
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning:
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Cheese:
1½ to 2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
Garnish:
Chopped parsley or green onions (optional)
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Optional Additions
Chopped spinach or kale (stir in at the end)
Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini
Crushed tomatoes or a splash of marinara for a saucy twist
Breadcrumb topping for a baked version
Swap beef for turkey, sausage, or plant-based crumbles
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Tips for Success
Salt your pasta water generously — it’s your first layer of flavor.
Drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid greasy results.
Cook garlic gently in butter to avoid bitterness — golden, not brown.
For ultra-gooey texture, mix cheese in two stages: once in the skillet, and once on top.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to help the cheese set.
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Instructions
1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Push the beef to the side and add butter and minced garlic to the pan. Cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir everything together, then add the drained pasta to the skillet.
5. Mix in 1 to 1½ cups of shredded cheese, letting it melt and coat everything evenly.
6. If desired, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it melt on low heat or under a broiler.
7. Garnish with parsley or green onions. Serve hot and cheesy!
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Description
This dish combines the umami depth of garlic butter, the richness of ground beef, and the comforting pull of melted cheese. The penne captures the sauce in its ridges, creating perfect bites every time. It’s a skillet full of creamy, cheesy goodness with just the right hint of garlic and herbs.
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Nutritional Information (Per Serving Estimate — 6 servings)
Calories: ~520 kcal
Protein: ~28g
Carbohydrates: ~42g
Fat: ~28g
Fiber: ~2g
Sugar: ~2g
Varies based on type/amount of cheese and optional additions.
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Conclusion
Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is proof that a few humble ingredients can create something truly indulgent. It’s simple to make, endlessly adaptable, and sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or looking for a comforting one-pot meal, this recipe hits the spot.
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Recommendation
Serve with:
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness
Garlic bread or crusty baguette
A glass of red wine (Cabernet or Merlot) or sparkling water with lemon
Make it ahead and reheat for easy lunches — it holds up beautifully in the fridge.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Even indulgent meals can be balanced:
Use whole wheat penne for added fiber
Choose lean ground beef or ground turkey
Reduce butter slightly or use olive oil
Mix in vegetables for nutrients and color
Opt for reduced-fat cheese or cut down the portion of cheese used
Remember: comfort food isn’t about guilt — it’s about nourishment, satisfaction, and joy in every bite.