Here’s a delicious and easy Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef recipe perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner:
🧄🧀 Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
🍝 Ingredients:
For the pasta:
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12 oz (340g) penne pasta
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Salt (for pasta water)
For the garlic butter beef:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the cheese sauce:
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 cups milk (preferably whole milk)
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1½ cups shredded mozzarella
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½ cup grated Parmesan
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Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳 Instructions:
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Cook the pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Make garlic butter ground beef:
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In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tbsp butter.
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Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant and soft (about 2–3 minutes).
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Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through.
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Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
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Once cooked, set aside or keep on low heat.
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Make the cheese sauce:
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In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
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Whisk in flour to form a roux, and cook for 1–2 minutes.
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Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer, whisking constantly until thickened.
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Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
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Season with salt and pepper.
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Combine everything:
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Add the drained pasta and cheese sauce to the skillet with the beef. Mix until everything is well coated.
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(Optional) Sprinkle extra cheese on top and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
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🍽️ Tips:
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Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a veggie boost.
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Use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
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Substitute ground turkey or chicken if preferred.