Description
This Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef is a creamy, hearty pasta dish made with tender penne, savory ground beef, and a garlic butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain the rest.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onion until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and beef broth to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Return beef to the skillet, then add cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Substitute ground beef with mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian version.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to maintain sauce consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
