This creamy and hearty Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a perfect 30-minute comfort meal. Tender penne pasta is coated in a rich garlic-butter sauce, combined with savory ground beef, and smothered in melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish is both simple and indulgent—guaranteed to satisfy the whole family.

Ingredients (serves 4–6)

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
  
  

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  
  

• 3 Tbsp butter
  
  

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  
  

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
  
  

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  
  

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  
  

• 1 cup heavy cream
  
  

• ½ cup beef broth
  
  

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  
  

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
  

• Salt and black pepper, to taste
  
  

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.
   
   

2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
   
   

3. Garlic-butter base: Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in garlic and onion; cook until fragrant and translucent (about 3 minutes).
   
   

4. Season & deglaze: Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using. Stir in heavy cream and beef broth; bring to a gentle simmer and let thicken slightly, about 3–5 minutes.
   
   

5. Combine pasta and cheese: Return the beef to the skillet, then add drained penne. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
   
   

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
   
   

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving, yields 4)

• Calories: ~580–620 kcal
  
  

• Protein: ~25–30 g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: ~50–55 g
  
  

• Fat: ~30–35 g (saturated ~15–18 g)
  
  

• Sodium: ~500–600 mg