Garlic Butter Ground Beef and Cheesy Penne
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
12 oz penne pasta
3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup beef broth (or pasta water)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp butter. Once melted, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
Make the garlic butter base: Push the beef to one side of the skillet and melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter on the other side. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, then mix with the beef.
Add liquids & cheese: Stir in beef broth (or reserved pasta water) and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer. Add in the mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until melted and creamy.
Combine: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated and cheesy.
Finish & Serve: Let it cook for another 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~680 per serving