Irresistible Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Beef Recipe

Published: November 14, 2025

by Aria

The moment you take your first bite of Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Beef, your taste buds will sing like they’re auditioning for a Broadway musical. Picture this: tender penne pasta coated in a creamy, garlicky sauce, with juicy beef pieces dancing alongside, all while the aroma wafts through your kitchen like an irresistible invitation to indulge. The melted cheese? Oh, it stretches like a gooey dream come true, begging you to dive in and experience the flavor explosion that awaits.

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Essential Ingredients
How to Make Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Beef
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Add Your Touch
Storing & Reheating
FAQ
Can I make Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Beef ahead of time?
What type of beef is best for this recipe?
Can I use gluten-free pasta instead?
📖 Recipe Card

This dish isn’t just food; it’s comfort on a plate, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing unexpected guests. I remember the very first time I served it at a gathering; folks were raving about it like it was the secret to happiness. With every forkful, they were transported into a world of cheesy bliss, and you’ll want to create those same joyful moments in your kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Beef recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
The flavor profile combines savory garlic and rich butter for a truly decadent experience
Its visual appeal with melty cheese and vibrant colors will make your dinner table shine
Versatile enough to customize with different proteins or veggies, it’s sure to please everyone!

I once whipped this up for my friends during a movie marathon night. The moment they walked in and caught a whiff of that rich garlic butter sauce bubbling away, they were instantly sold.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Penne Pasta: I opt for whole wheat penne for added fiber but any penne works well.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds bold flavor; avoid pre-minced varieties if possible.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness; it enriches the sauce beautifully.
Heavy Cream: This luscious ingredient creates that dreamy creamy sauce we all crave.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts perfectly and brings that cheesy goodness to life.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds depth and richness; sprinkle generously on top before serving.
Salt and Pepper: A classic duo essential for seasoning your dish perfectly.
Parsley (optional): Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness; chop finely before garnishing.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Beef

How to Make Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Beef

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously—like you’re at the beach—and toss in the penne pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions; drain and set aside.

Sauté the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Stir occasionally until browned and crumbly—about 5-7 minutes—then drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Garlic and Butter: Lower heat slightly and introduce minced garlic along with butter into the pan. Sauté until fragrant—around 1 minute—keeping an eye out so it doesn’t burn into oblivion.

Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream as you stir continuously to combine with the beef mixture. Let it simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened; your kitchen will smell heavenly.

Melt in Cheese Galore!: Gradually add both cheddar and parmesan cheeses while stirring until completely melted and creamy. If you’re feeling adventurous, taste-test to ensure it screams “delicious.”

Toss Everything Together!: Finally, add cooked penne into the skillet with sauce. Mix thoroughly until every piece is coated in cheesy goodness; season with salt and pepper as needed.

Now serve yourself a generous bowl of Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Beef! Your taste buds will thank you profusely, possibly even begging for seconds. Enjoy this comforting dish while watching your favorite show or sharing stories around the dinner table—it’s bound to become an instant classic in your home!

You Must Know

Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Beef is a heartwarming dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas
The creamy texture and savory flavors create an enjoyable experience, perfect for any family gathering
Elevate your dinner game with this easy, yet impressive recipe

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the beef first to lock in flavors, then cook the penne while preparing the garlic butter sauce for optimal timing.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap beef for chicken or add veggies like spinach or broccoli for a colorful twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly cheesy pasta, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded; it melts better and adds flavor
Avoid overcooking the penne; al dente pasta holds up beautifully in the dish
Don’t skimp on garlic—more means more flavor!

Cooking this dish reminds me of a family get-together where everyone couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was, especially my picky cousin!

FAQ

Can I make Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter Beef ahead of time?

Yes, prepare everything early and combine just before serving for best flavor.

What type of beef is best for this recipe?

Use ground beef or steak cut into small pieces for optimal flavor and texture.

Can I use gluten-free pasta instead?

Absolutely! Gluten-free penne works well in this recipe without sacrificing taste.