What ingredients do I need to make cheesy penne with ground beef?

To make cheesy penne with ground beef, you’ll need penne pasta, lean ground beef, diced tomatoes or tomato paste, cheddar cheese, heavy cream, onions, and Worcestershire sauce. Optional additions include garlic, bell peppers, mushrooms, and fresh spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning or fennel seeds can also be added to enhance the taste. These ingredients combine to create a creamy, cheesy, and savory pasta dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Can I use other types of ground meat besides beef for this pasta?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the beef in this recipe. However, avoid using ground turkey breast alone because it tends to be very lean and can make the dish dry. If using higher-fat ground beef, be sure to drain off any excess grease after cooking to prevent the sauce from becoming oily. These substitutions still deliver a flavorful and hearty pasta meal while accommodating different dietary preferences.

Why should I save some pasta water when cooking penne for this recipe?

Saving a cup of pasta water before draining is important because it contains starch and salt that help the sauce cling to the noodles better. When you add the starchy water to the cheese and ground beef sauce, it thins the sauce slightly and creates a smooth, flavorful coating that reaches every bite. This technique also helps balance the sauce’s consistency, making the dish creamier and more satisfying.

What can I use instead of heavy cream if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or evaporated milk, but be cautious as these alternatives can cause the sauce to curdle, especially when heated quickly or boiled. To reduce this risk, remove the sauce from heat before stirring in the dairy and cheese. Warm gently and stir continuously until the cheese melts smoothly. Heavy cream’s higher fat content helps create the rich texture typical of cheesy penne dishes.

How can I turn cheesy ground beef penne into a baked pasta dish?

To make a baked cheesy penne, prepare the pasta and ground beef sauce as usual, then combine them in a baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheddar cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. Baking adds a delicious crust and changes the texture, making it a great option for a comforting casserole-style meal.

Cheesy Penne Ground Beef Recipe For Quick Easy Meals

Name: Cheesy Penne Ground Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 14 ounces (about 400 grams) penne pasta; – 1.5 pounds (approximately 680 grams) ground beef; – 1/2 teaspoon salt; – 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; – 1 medium onion, chopped; – 3 cloves garlic, minced; – 2 tablespoons tomato paste; – 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; – 1 (14 ounce or about 400 grams) can diced tomatoes; – 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream; – 1.5 cups (about 170 grams) shredded cheddar cheese

Description

🍝 This Ground Beef Pasta is a quick and hearty meal packed with rich, cheesy flavor and comforting textures.
🧀 Its easy preparation makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or satisfying family dinners.

Ingredients

– 14 ounces (about 400 grams) penne pasta

– 1.5 pounds (approximately 680 grams) ground beef

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 tablespoons tomato paste

– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

– 1 (14 ounce or about 400 grams) can diced tomatoes

– 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream

– 1.5 cups (about 170 grams) shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1-Boil the penne pasta in salted water until it’s al dente, typically around 9-11 minutes.

2-Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s fully cooked and crumbly.

3-Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing them until they soften and release their aroma.

4-Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and salt to build a flavorful sauce. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the tastes.

5-Combine the drained pasta with the sauce mixture, then mix in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese off the heat for that creamy finish.

Notes

🧂 Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before adding the cheese.
🧀 Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
🍅 For added depth, consider adding a splash of red wine or some fresh basil.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Boiling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 600 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 700 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 50 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 100 mg

Keywords: Ground Beef Pasta, Cheesy Pasta, Easy Dinner, Comfort Food