If you are craving a comforting meal that comes together quickly on a busy weeknight, then look no further than Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe. This dish combines al dente penne pasta with a rich, savory ground beef tomato sauce, all hugged by creamy sour cream and topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures to make every bite satisfying and downright irresistible. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe promises simplicity without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because it calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in building flavor and texture. You’ll appreciate how the balance of spices and dairy create that comforting, homemade feel.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to catch every bit of sauce and cheese in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a touch of richness to sauté the aromatics and enhances the flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a meaty, savory foundation for the dish.
- 1 small onion, diced: Offers a sweet and delicate crunch that softens as it cooks.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings fragrant warmth and slight pungency, elevating the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuse the dish with classic Italian flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough mild heat and depth.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a tangy, rich base for the sauce that ties everything together.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and deepens the meaty flavor of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Gives an unexpected creamy tang that makes the sauce luscious and smooth.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the top, giving a gooey, cheesy finish.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty contrast and savory punch.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Brightens the dish with fresh color and mild herbaceous notes for garnish.
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it until just al dente, so it holds its shape yet is tender enough to soak up sauce. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside to prepare for the cheesy assembly later.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become translucent, releasing a sweet aroma. Then add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds to bring out its fragrant warmth without burning.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it apart with your spoon and cook thoroughly until the beef is browned and no longer pink. This browning process is essential for building that deep, savory flavor that makes this dish so satisfying. Drain any excess fat to keep the final dish luscious but not greasy.
Step 4: Season and Simmer the Sauce
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir to sprinkle the spices evenly throughout the beef. Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, then let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives the sauce a rich, comforting body.
Step 5: Add Sour Cream and Combine with Pasta
Turn the heat down to low and stir in the sour cream until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Next, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir well so every piece is coated with that luscious, cheesy beef sauce. This combination creates the magic that makes this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe so unforgettable.
Step 6: Top with Cheese and Melt
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let it cook on low for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts into an ooey-gooey layer. This final step delivers the signature cheesy goodness that makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
If you like, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy your homemade, comforting creation!
How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley isn’t just for show—it adds a subtle herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. You can also experiment with a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a gentle kick or add a drizzle of good quality olive oil for extra decadence.
Side Dishes
To complement this hearty dish, serve it alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or garlic bread that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also bring a lovely contrast in texture and freshness to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the cheesy penne straight from the skillet at the table for a rustic vibe. Or portion it into individual ramekins, broil until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly, and watch your guests marvel at the rich presentation. It’s a perfect dish that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be cooled completely and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a convenient and tasty lunch or quick dinner option. The flavors actually deepen when rested, so reheated portions taste almost as fresh as when first made.
Freezing
You can freeze extra portions by placing cooled servings into freezer-friendly containers or bags. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Be sure to label them with the date so you can enjoy this comforting meal anytime without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions in the fridge overnight or gently warm refrigerated leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened. This will help bring back that creamy texture that makes this dish so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for catching the sauce, rigatoni, ziti, or even fusilli would work wonderfully.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat substitute to keep it hearty and flavorful.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely. You can cook all the components in advance and assemble or reheat when ready to serve, making it a great option for meal prep.
What can I add to increase the veggie content?
Sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms mixed in with the beef add both nutrition and extra flavor without complicating the process.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids usually love the creamy cheese and tender pasta, and you can adjust the seasoning to match their taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
If you want a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite, you simply have to try Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe. It’s straightforward enough for any weeknight and indulgent enough to feel like a special treat. Give it a go and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen rotation!
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Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef is a hearty and easy-to-make skillet pasta dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender penne pasta is combined with a flavorful ground beef and tomato sauce base, enriched with creamy sour cream and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for a comforting, cheesy finish. This American-Italian inspired meal is satisfying and kid-friendly, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Sauce and Meat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned evenly and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to reduce greasiness.
- Season and simmer: Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine. Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to incorporate. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes so flavors meld together.
- Add sour cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream until fully combined into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss and stir carefully to coat all the pasta evenly in the creamy beef sauce.
- Melt the cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheeses melt and become bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: If desired, sprinkle chopped parsley over the finished dish for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra vegetables, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers when cooking the onions.
- You can bake the assembled pasta in a 375°F oven for 15 minutes to develop a golden, bubbly cheese crust instead of stovetop melting.
- Drain excess fat carefully after browning beef for a leaner dish.
- Use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter variation.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat on stovetop or microwave.
