Cheesy Penne Garlic Butter (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 12 oz penne pasta
02 - 1 lb ground beef
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 teaspoon salt
06 - 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
07 - 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
08 - 1⁄2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
09 - 2 cups heavy cream
10 - 1 cup beef broth
11 - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
12 - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
13 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
02 - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
03 - Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
04 - Season the cooked beef with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
05 - Lower the heat to medium and pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
06 - Add the drained penne pasta into the sauce, stirring to ensure all the pasta is coated evenly.
07 - Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy and thickened.
08 - Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.
09 - Garnish the dish with chopped parsley before serving.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for enhanced flavor and texture.