If you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor and comes together in a single pot, look no further than this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef. It’s rich, creamy, and cheesy with bold garlic undertones—and best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.
This is the kind of recipe that makes you want seconds (and thirds). It’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights, comforting family dinners, or meal prep that tastes even better the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ One-pot meal = less cleanup
✅ Rich, garlicky butter flavor with melty cheese
✅ Hearty and kid-approved
✅ Customizable with veggies or spice
✅ Budget-friendly and ready in under 30 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups dry penne pasta
- 3 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, Parmesan for garnish
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
1. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add the remaining butter, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
3. Cook the Pasta
Add the dry penne directly to the pot along with the beef broth. Stir well, cover, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Make it Cheesy
Stir in the heavy cream (or milk), shredded cheese, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, stirring constantly, until the cheese melts and everything is creamy and well combined.
5. Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve hot!
Variations to Try
- Add veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers
- Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper or a splash of hot sauce
- Tex-Mex version: Add taco seasoning and swap cheddar for pepper jack
- Make it creamy: Add cream cheese or a dollop of sour cream
- Low-carb version: Use cooked cauliflower instead of pasta
What to Serve With It
- Garlic bread or cheesy toast
- Simple green salad or Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli or steamed veggies
- A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth or milk to loosen
- Freezes well for up to 2 months (thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating)
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe is comfort food at its easiest and most flavorful. With its bold garlic taste, creamy cheese, and tender pasta, it’s guaranteed to be a repeat recipe for any household that loves simple, delicious meals with minimal effort.
One pot. Rich flavor. Zero fuss. 🧄🧈🧀🍝