Description
Cheesy Ground Beef Penne
A comforting skillet dish with cheesy, savory pasta and perfectly seasoned ground beef – a meal everyone will love!
Ingredients:
300g penne pasta
300g ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the pasta: Boil the penne in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Cook the ground beef: In a skillet, sauté the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Add chopped onions and garlic and cook until softened.
Make the sauce: Add the beef broth to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture and toss to coat.
Melt the cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the pasta and let it melt for a few minutes.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper.
This dish is quick, easy, and filled with cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect one-pan meal. First, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne and cook for 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests for al dente pasta. Drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula. Cook until no pink remains. Drain excess fat if desired, then reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add the minced garlic for the final minute until fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth, using your spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds incredible flavor. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly. Season well with salt and pepper. Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet, tossing thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated in the savory beef mixture. Level the top, then evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over everything. Cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish stands on its own but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for scooping up any extra sauce. For a fresh element, top with a dollop of ricotta or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil. A light, acidic red wine like a Chianti pairs beautifully.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta al dente. Brown ground beef, then sauté onions and garlic. Deglaze with beef broth and simmer. Combine pasta and beef in the skillet. Top with cheese, cover to melt, garnish, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Short, sturdy shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or shells work well. Adjust cooking times according to package directions.
How can I make this dish creamier?
Stir in 1/4 cup of cream cheese, heavy cream, or sour cream with the beef broth for a richer, creamier sauce.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions. Spinach or kale can be stirred in just before adding the cheese to wilt.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead?
Yes, but leaner meats have less fat, so use a tablespoon of olive oil for cooking and consider using chicken broth for the liquid.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta to full softness before adding to the skillet will make it mushy. Always aim for al dente.
- Skipping the Fond: Not scraping the browned bits (fond) from the pan when adding the broth misses a major flavor opportunity.
- Underseasoning: Season the beef layer and the broth layer in stages. Taste before adding the pasta.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the melt less smooth. Shredding your own cheese is best.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef Penne is the epitome of comforting, family-friendly cooking. It’s a versatile, one-skillet wonder that comes together with simple ingredients and minimal cleanup. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a delicious, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the simple pleasure of a hot, cheesy, and utterly delicious plate of pasta.