Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and truth be told, it might taste even better the next day. Southern flavors settle and sing when given a night to rest. Store in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of broth.

Can I use a slow cooker or crock pot for this recipe?

You can. Brown the beef and soften the onions first, then finish with cream and cheese toward the end. This helps prevent the dairy from separating and keeps the texture creamy.

What cheeses work best?

A blend is best. Cheddar gives body and bite. Parmesan gives a salty, savory lift. Mozzarella adds stretch and melt. Use good-quality Parmesan for the most authentic flavor.

How can I make this lighter?

Half the cream can be swapped with whole milk and a teaspoon of cornstarch. Reduce cheese by a little, and add more herbs and vegetables to balance the richness.

Is this recipe freezer friendly?

Yes. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

Easy Cheesy Garlic Butter Beef Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce 2026

Name: Cheesy Garlic Butter Beef Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 12 oz penne; 1 lb lean ground beef; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 1 small onion, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup broth (chicken or beef); 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tbsp butter, optional for finishing; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Description

A warm and comforting pasta dish featuring penne tossed with savory ground beef in a creamy garlic butter and parmesan sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz penne
1 lb lean ground beef
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup broth (chicken or beef)
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp butter, optional for finishing
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook penne according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat until foamy.
Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened and golden.
Incorporate ground beef, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; cook until browned.
Stir in flour and cook for another minute to remove raw flavor.
Gradually add broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
Mix in cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
Add cooked penne to the sauce; mix well until coated.
Finish with extra butter and garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

Use real butter and good-quality cheese for the best flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste and pair with a side salad or cornbread.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 550
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 100mg