Introduction
Welcome, food lovers! Today, I am excited to share a recipe that will make your taste buds dance. This Garlic Butter Penne Pasta with Beef is a savory delight you absolutely can’t resist. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this pasta will impress everyone. Plus, it’s quick to make, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 ounces of penne pasta
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful dish. Make sure to use fresh garlic for the best taste!
Timing
Timing is everything in cooking. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
In just half an hour, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to serve. How great is that?
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your Garlic Butter Penne Pasta with Beef.
1. Cook the Penne Pasta
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Then, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Usually, it takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula while cooking.
3. Add Garlic and Seasoning
Now, it’s time to add the flavor! Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture
Next, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Pour in the remaining butter and toss everything together. Make sure the pasta is well coated in the delicious garlic butter sauce.
5. Add Cheese and Season
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir, and let the cheese melt into the pasta.
6. Serve and Garnish
Finally, serve your Garlic Butter Penne Pasta with Beef hot! Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Wondering about the nutrition? Here’s a quick look at what you’ll get in one serving:
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
This dish is hearty, filling, and packed with protein. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to make this dish a bit lighter, consider these options:
- Use whole wheat penne for added fiber.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Replace butter with olive oil for a healthier fat choice.
- Consider adding more veggies like spinach or bell peppers.
These alternatives can help you enjoy this dish while keeping your health goals in mind.
Serving Suggestions
Wondering how to complement your Garlic Butter Penne Pasta with Beef? Here are some tasty ideas:
- Serve with a side salad for freshness.
- Pair it with garlic bread for a carb-lover’s dream.
- Top with extra Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
These options will surely elevate your meal experience!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best chefs can make mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushy results.
- Not using enough seasoning can make the dish bland.
- Burning the garlic will ruin the flavor.
By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll create a dish that dazzles!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, but you never know!), here’s how to store them:
- Allow the pasta to cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
This way, you can enjoy your delicious pasta again!
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Garlic Butter Penne Pasta with Beef is a dish you’ll want to make again and again. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s a winner for any meal. So gather your ingredients and get cooking!
PrintIrresistible Garlic Butter Penne Pasta with Beef: A Savory Delight You Can’t Resist
A rich and flavorful Garlic Butter Penne Pasta with Beef, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of penne pasta
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil water and cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet and brown the ground beef for 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Mix in the cooked penne pasta and remaining butter, tossing to coat.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh garlic.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Meat-based
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. The flavor will still be amazing!
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free penne pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add any veggies you like. Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers would work well.
What can I serve as a side dish?
A fresh garden salad or some steamed vegetables would pair perfectly with this pasta!
Final Thoughts
Thank you for joining me on this delicious journey! I hope you enjoy making and eating this Garlic Butter Penne Pasta with Beef as much as I do. It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please. Don’t forget to share your cooking adventures in the comments below!