Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s rich, hearty, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser? This Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef is a comforting blend of al dente pasta, savory beef, and melty cheese all wrapped in a creamy, garlicky butter sauce. Every bite is filled with flavor, making it perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something warm and filling.

What makes this dish even better is how easy it is to pull together. You get the taste of a lasagna or baked ziti without the layers and fuss. One bite of the buttery garlic beef paired with cheesy penne, and you’ll understand why this dish might become your new favorite.

What Kind of Cheese Should I Use for Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef?

Mozzarella is your go-to if you want those irresistible cheese pulls, but don’t overlook the richness of cheddar or the tang of parmesan. A blend works beautifully too! If you’re feeling bold, try a little provolone or Monterey Jack to bring more depth. Whatever cheese you choose, just make sure it melts well and complements the savory garlic butter and beef flavors.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Penne Pasta
This short tubular pasta holds onto the sauce perfectly and bakes well without becoming soggy.

Ground Beef
Use lean ground beef for hearty flavor and easy cleanup. It’s the protein foundation of the dish.

Garlic
Fresh minced garlic sautéed in butter gives the dish its signature aromatic depth.

Butter
Acts as the flavor base for the garlic and enhances the richness of the sauce.

Tomato Sauce or Marinara
Adds a subtle acidity that balances out the richness of the butter and cheese.

Heavy Cream (optional)
For extra creamy texture, a splash of cream makes the dish feel indulgent.

Mozzarella Cheese
Melts into gooey perfection over the pasta. You can mix with cheddar or parmesan for more flavor.

Italian Seasoning
A blend of dried herbs like oregano and basil rounds out the sauce beautifully.

Salt and Pepper
Essential for seasoning the beef and pasta layers.

Parsley (optional)
A garnish that adds freshness and a pop of color.

How To Make the Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and no longer pink.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Once the beef is cooked, pour in the tomato sauce or marinara. Stir in a splash of heavy cream if using, then let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne to the skillet and toss to coat everything in the sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy bite!

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Serve this dish piping hot straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for extra indulgence. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds heat if desired.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli all work well. Just pick something that holds sauce effectively.

How do I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the beef or mix in a bit of hot sauce into the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Bake when ready to serve.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can skip it or use a bit of milk or sour cream as a substitute. It won’t be quite as rich but still delicious.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Definitely. Swap the beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Comfort Twist?

If you love this Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef, you might enjoy these comforting dinner recipes too:

Baked Chicken Alfredo Casserole for creamy, cheesy chicken goodness.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Pasta Skillet packed with veggies and hearty flavor.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta if you crave seafood with a punch of garlic.
One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta for bold and savory one-pan magic.
Loaded Mac and Cheese with Bacon when you’re craving full-on cheesy comfort.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the mozzarella? Add chili flakes for extra heat? Or sneak in some spinach?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook with confidence.

Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner

Print Recipe

Description

This comforting and cheesy penne bake is the perfect way to upgrade your pasta night. Featuring buttery garlic ground beef, tender penne pasta, and melty mozzarella cheese, it’s baked to golden perfection. Ideal for weeknights or hearty gatherings, it’s easy to make and even easier to love.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned.
Pour in tomato sauce and stir in heavy cream (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes.
Mix cooked pasta into the skillet until evenly coated.
Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.