Indulge Creamy Cheesy Penne

Nothing tastes quite as comforting as a bowl of creamy cheesy penne tossed with garlic butter ground beef The magic is in how quickly the rich cheesy sauce comes together while the pasta cooks This is my answer for weeknights when I want full flavor with minimal fuss

I remember the first time I made this on a rainy evening I was amazed by how something so simple had everyone going back for seconds Now it is my go to when friends drop in hungry

Gather Your Ingredients

• Penne pasta: The ridges hold onto the cheesy sauce perfectly Choose bronze cut if you can for better texture
• Lean ground beef: Adds richness and hearty flavor Opt for freshly ground if possible it makes a big difference
• Minced garlic: Infuses the ground beef with deep savory notes Fresh garlic is essential for best flavor
• Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its signature silkiness Double check the date for freshness
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Delivers ultimate creaminess and that golden cheesy pull Look for sharp cheddar for a robust taste
• Italian seasoning: Adds herbal notes and balances the richness Choose a blend with a hint of oregano and basil for best results
• Salt: Heightens all the flavors Kosher salt dissolves beautifully
• Black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and depth Always use freshly ground for a bigger punch

How to Make It

Prep the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne just shy of al dente about 8 to 9 minutes Reserve half a cup of pasta water for adjustment later Drain and set aside

Brown the Beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat add the ground beef Break it up with a spoon and cook until deeply browned and crumbled which takes about seven minutes Drain any excess fat so the sauce does not end up greasy

Infuse the Garlic:

Sprinkle in the minced garlic over the cooked beef Cook gently for up to two minutes stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant but not browned This step unlocks the base flavor for the whole dish

Make the Cheesy Sauce:

Lower the heat to the lowest setting Stir in the heavy cream then gradually scatter in the shredded cheddar cheese Toss in Italian seasoning salt and black pepper Stir patiently until the cheese melts fully and the mixture becomes smooth silky and thick If the sauce gets too thick splash in reserved pasta water a little at a time until your preferred consistency

Combine and Finish:

Tip the drained pasta into the skillet and toss everything together until each piece is hugged by sauce Let it sit on low heat two more minutes to help the flavors meld together Taste for seasoning and serve hot

Sharp cheddar is my favorite cheese for this dish I love how its bite balances the rich beefy flavors and every time my family smells the garlic and cheese together in the kitchen they know something special is coming

Flavor Boosters

For extra flavor try seasoning the beef with a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes Add a few fresh basil leaves just before serving for a fresh herbal lift

Serving Suggestions

Serve on a bed of fresh baby spinach for a pop of color and nutrients Add roasted broccoli or peas on the side or toss in fresh basil for brightness A sprinkle of red pepper flakes offers gentle heat

Creative Twists

You can swap out penne for any short pasta shape like rigatoni or fusilli Try ground turkey for a lighter version or shredded mozzarella for a milder cheese flavor In the summer stir in diced zucchini

Finish under the broiler with extra cheese until bubbly for a decadent touch This pasta is creamy bliss in every bite

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne pasta is preferred in this dish as its tubular shape holds the creamy sauce well, ensuring each bite is flavorful.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Cheddar cheese is recommended for its sharp flavor and melting properties, but other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda can also work for a milder taste.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Stir the sauce constantly over low heat to help the cheese melt evenly with the cream, and avoid boiling to keep the texture smooth.

→ Is there a way to make it spicier?

Adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the beef can introduce a pleasant spicy kick.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can cook the components ahead and combine before serving. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy sauce consistency.