There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty pasta dish, isn’t there? Just the thought of sinking your fork into creamy beef penne with melted cheese brings back memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. This Beef Penne with Cheddar Jack Cream is not only easy to whip up, but it also comes together in no time, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a dish to impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love Beef Penne with Cheddar Jack Cream
- Fast
- Easy
- Giftable
- Crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta – The base of our dish, it holds onto that creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 pound ground beef – A flavorful protein that adds heartiness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing and adding a hint of richness.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Brings sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better!
- 1 cup beef broth – Adds moisture and flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream – The star ingredient for that luscious creaminess.
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar Jack cheese – For a melty, cheesy goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – A pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Beef Penne with Cheddar Jack Cream
- Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring to prevent it from burning.
- Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to develop flavors.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Gradually add the shredded Cheddar Jack cheese, stirring continuously until it’s melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Finally, combine the cooked penne with the beef and cheese sauce, mixing well so every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Substitutions & Additions
If you’re looking to switch things up, here are some great substitutions and additions:
- Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add some veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
- Swap out the Cheddar Jack cheese for your favorite cheese blend, like mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick.
- For a touch of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your Beef Penne comes out perfect:
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more beef broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
- This dish can be made ahead of time! Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently when you are ready to serve.
How to Store Beef Penne with Cheddar Jack Cream
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up if it thickens too much. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing!
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any pasta you have on hand.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? You can use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Sure! Just skip the beef and use mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute.
This Beef Penne with Cheddar Jack Cream is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. For more delicious recipes, check out Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes or Apple Pie Biscuits for treats you will love!
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Beef Penne with Cheddar Jack Cream
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large pot
Ingredients
For the Beef Penne
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar Jack cheese
For garnishing
- fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Step 3: Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring to prevent it from burning.
- Step 4: Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there's excess fat, feel free to drain it.
- Step 5: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to develop flavors.
- Step 6: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Step 7: Gradually add the shredded Cheddar Jack cheese, stirring continuously until it’s melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Step 8: Finally, combine the cooked penne with the beef and cheese sauce, mixing well so every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness.
- Step 9: Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.