If you’re craving comfort food that’s both effortless and absolutely crowd-pleasing, you are going to fall head over heels for this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner. Imagine tender al dente penne tossed in a rich, meaty tomato sauce, all wrapped in a blanket of gooey cheddar and mozzarella. It’s a weeknight hero that packs big flavor into a straightforward, family-friendly dish—and the leftovers are irresistible!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its simple pantry staples that each play a starring role. Here’s what you’ll need, along with little tips so every bite of your Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner feels like pure comfort.
- Penne Pasta: The firm ridges of penne hold the savory sauce perfectly, giving every forkful a satisfying bite.
- Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 or even leaner for a rich but not greasy base; substitute with turkey or sausage for fun twists.
- Onion: Finely chopped, it melts into the sauce and builds a sweet, aromatic flavor foundation.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the sauce irresistible depth—don’t skip this for that homey, made-from-scratch taste.
- Seasonings (Salt, Black Pepper, Italian seasoning): This simple trio transforms the sauce into something truly crave-worthy.
- Tomato Sauce: A can of tomato sauce brings moisture and classic Italian-inspired tang.
- Beef Broth or Pasta Cooking Water: Adds savory richness and helps the sauce cling to every noodle.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the dish its signature tangy, melty cheesiness.
- Mozzarella Cheese: For that stretchy, luscious finish we all love.
- Olive Oil (if needed): Use a drizzle if your beef is especially lean to avoid sticking.
- Optional Garnish (Parsley or Basil): A sprinkle of fresh green herbs brightens up the finished plate beautifully.
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner
Step 1: Boil the Penne Pasta
Start by cooking the penne in a large pot of salted boiling water. Go for al dente—about one minute less than the package instructions—so your noodles don’t get mushy while finishing in the sauce. Don’t forget to scoop out half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining; it comes to the rescue later for silky sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a roomy skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef. Break it up gently as it browns so you have lots of craggy edges for the sauce and cheese to cling to. If your beef is extra lean, drizzle a little olive oil to prevent sticking and keep things juicy.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic right into the skillet with your browned beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent and the garlic smells heavenly. This is what builds that irresistible, cozy foundation for your Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
It’s time to season—add salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning (or dried oregano if that’s what you have). Next, pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth (or reserved pasta water), scraping up any flavorful bits at the bottom of the pan. Simmer for a few minutes so everything marries together into a lush, savory sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Return the drained penne to the skillet. Scatter the shredded cheddar and mozzarella over the top, then toss everything gently but thoroughly. Watch as the cheeses melt and stretch, turning your pasta into a cheesy, bubbly masterpiece. If it looks a bit thick, a splash of reserved pasta water lets you loosen the sauce just right.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Spoon onto plates and finish with a sprinkling of chopped parsley or basil for a pop of freshness. Serve your Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner piping hot—don’t be surprised if everyone comes back for seconds!
How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner
Garnishes
A shower of chopped fresh parsley lifts the dish with color and garden-fresh aroma, while ribbons of basil add a sweet, peppery note. For an extra-cheesy finish, grate a bit of parmesan over each plate just before serving. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for fans of heat!
Side Dishes
You can round out the meal with crusty garlic bread to mop up every last drop of sauce, or a simple green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette for some crunch and freshness. Roasted broccoli or asparagus are also lovely, balancing the richness of Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your pasta into a cozy baked casserole by pouring it into a baking dish, topping with extra cheese, and broiling until bubbling and golden brown. For individual flair, serve in shallow bowls with a flourish of herbs or offer a self-serve pasta bar with toppings like olives, roasted peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for a personalized Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner cool to room temperature, then scoop into airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, it keeps beautifully for up to 3 days without losing its comforting flavors or creamy texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes surprisingly well! Transfer cooled portions into freezer-friendly containers, squeezing out excess air. Label, date, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results—you’ll have a homemade dinner ready in a snap.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce and restore that creamy, cheesy texture. Alternatively, pop individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through so everything heats evenly. Top with a fresh dusting of cheese or herbs to liven it up again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for catching the sauce, you can swap in any sturdy pasta shape you have on hand: rigatoni, ziti, rotini, or even fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure your noodles stay pleasingly al dente.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free penne or pasta alternative, and be sure to check that your broth and seasonings are gluten-free as well. The rest of the recipe for Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner remains exactly the same—no flavor lost!
How can I lighten up this recipe?
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, and use part-skim cheese or reduce the cheese amounts to suit your preferences. You can also sneak in finely chopped spinach or zucchini during the sautéing step for bonus veggies without the fuss.
What’s the best way to make it extra creamy?
If you love ultra-creamy pasta, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese right before adding the shredded cheese. It transforms your Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner into an even more decadent, silky dish.
Can I prep components ahead for a faster weeknight dinner?
Yes! You can brown the beef and sauté the onion and garlic up to a day ahead—store in the fridge, then reheat while the pasta cooks. Shred the cheeses and chop the herbs in advance as well, so dinner comes together in a flash.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that brings everyone to the table with smiles, you can’t go wrong with Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner. It’s simple, adaptable, and always delivers comfort in a bowl. So gather your ingredients and give it a try—you’ll love how easy homemade happiness can be!
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Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender penne pasta with savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried Italian seasoning (or oregano)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- ½ cup beef broth (or pasta cooking water)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
- Cook the Penne: Boil the penne pasta until al dente, then drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Ground Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add Sauce: Stir in tomato sauce and beef broth. Simmer, then add cooked penne.
- Melt Cheese: Add cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until melted and coating the pasta.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley or basil, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for variation.
- For a creamier dish, add heavy cream or cream cheese with the cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop Skillet
- Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
