Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne (Print Format)
Tender penne combines with savory beef, creamy garlic sauce, sausage, and spinach for a cozy, satisfying meal.
# Ingredients:
01 -
1 pound penne pasta
02 -
1 pound ground beef
03 -
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
04 -
1 large onion, chopped
05 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
07 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
08 -
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 -
ΒΌ cup all-purpose flour
10 -
3 cups whole milk
11 -
1 cup chicken broth
12 -
1 cup heavy cream
13 -
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
15 -
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
16 -
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
17 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
18 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
# Steps:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water if needed for later.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Break the meat apart as it cooks until browned with crispy edges. Drain excess grease to avoid an oily dish.
03 -
Stir in the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Mix in the spinach and let it heat through for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
04 -
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to maintain smoothness. Let it simmer gently until thickened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
05 -
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Add the Parmesan, mozzarella, Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce is creamy.
06 -
Combine the cooked pasta, meat-spinach mixture, and creamy sauce in a large pot or skillet. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated and all ingredients are well mixed. Optional: Transfer to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with mozzarella, and broil for a golden, bubbly crust.
# Tips:
01 -
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.