Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cheesy Ground Beef Penne Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 19 reviews
  • Author: Caroline
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

A comforting and flavorful dish featuring penne pasta tossed with garlic butter ground beef and melted cheeses, seasoned with Italian herbs and spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, then drain any excess fat if necessary.
  4. Season: Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  5. Simmer: Pour in beef broth and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to combine flavors.
  6. Combine Pasta and Beef: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss well to coat in the sauce.
  7. Add Cheese: Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Notes

  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option.
  • Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to increase vegetable content.
  • Double the cheese for a richer, gooier texture.
  • This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg