Introduction
Indulge in the creamy delight of One-Pot Cheesy Beef Garlic Penne, a dish that combines the richness of beef and cheese with the satisfying texture of penne pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal cleanup and less time spent in the kitchen, while still delivering a hearty meal that the whole family will love. With its savory garlic flavor intermingling with melted cheese, you won’t be able to resist going back for seconds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Penne pasta – 8 ounces
Ground beef – 1 pound
Garlic cloves, minced – 4
Beef broth – 2 cups
Cream cheese – 4 ounces
Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped – for garnish
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 20 minutes
Total Time – 30 minutes
Yield – 4 servings
This One-Pot Cheesy Beef Garlic Penne is sure to become a family favorite, offering both comfort and convenience in one delicious dish. Enjoy the richness of flavors while keeping your kitchen clean and your dinner stress-free!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all necessary ingredients: penne pasta, ground beef, garlic, diced tomatoes, beef broth, cream cheese, and shredded cheese.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Add the Diced Tomatoes
Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice and mix well with the ground beef and garlic.
Step 5: Pour in the Beef Broth
Add the beef broth, stirring to combine with the meat and tomato mixture.
Step 6: Incorporate the Penne Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Stir to ensure the pasta is fully immersed in the liquid.
Step 7: Simmer the Mixture
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente, stirring occasionally.
Step 8: Add Cream Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the cream cheese until it has melted and evenly distributed.
Step 9: Mix in the Shredded Cheese
Fold in the shredded cheese until fully melted and incorporated, creating a creamy and cheesy texture.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the cheesy beef garlic penne warm, garnishing with additional cheese or herbs if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
Note 1: Pasta Cooking Time
Adjust the cooking time for the penne based on the package instructions or your preferred level of doneness.
Note 2: Ground Beef Alternatives
Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Note 3: Cheese Variations
You can experiment with different cheese blends, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for varied flavors.
Note 4: Leftover Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a key technique in this recipe where ingredients like garlic are cooked quickly in a small amount of oil. This process helps to develop flavor and aroma.
Deglazing
Deglazing involves adding a liquid (such as broth) to the pan after sautéing to lift the browned bits off the bottom. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
One-Pot Cooking
One-pot cooking simplifies meal preparation by allowing all ingredients to cook together in a single pot, saving time on both cooking and cleanup.
Simmering
Simmering is used to cook the pasta and beef together in a flavorful sauce, allowing the pasta to absorb flavor while becoming tender.
Cheesy Layering
Layering cheese during the cooking process creates a rich, melty texture that enhances the dish’s overall creaminess.
Resting
Allowing the dish to rest after cooking can help the flavors meld together, providing a more cohesive taste when served.
FAQ
Can I substitute beef with another protein?
Yes, you can easily substitute beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein to suit your dietary preferences.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses can be used. Choose your preferred cheese for the best flavor and texture.
How long does it take to cook?
The entire cooking process typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the specific stove and pot used.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Is it freezer-friendly?
This meal can be frozen; however, the texture of the pasta may change upon thawing and reheating. It’s recommended to store it in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This One-Pot Cheesy Beef Garlic Penne is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and easy preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a comforting meal that the whole family will love. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness elevate this pasta dish to a crowd-pleaser, making it a go-to recipe for those looking to save time without sacrificing flavor.
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