One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Pasta Dinner

Steps

1. 1

   Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. 2

   Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and slightly crispy.

3. 3

   Season the beef with salt, black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning. Stir well to coat.

4. 4

   Push the seasoned beef to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter, the diced onion, and the minced garlic to the empty space.

5. 5

   Cook the onion and garlic until they are soft and fragrant, then mix them into the beef.

6. 6

   Pour in 3 cups of beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

7. 7

   Stir in 12 oz of penne pasta. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

8. 8

   Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1.5 cups of heavy cream, stirring until well combined.

9. 9

   Add 4 oz of cream cheese and whisk or stir vigorously until the sauce is smooth and the cream cheese has fully incorporated.

10. 10

    Add 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, 1 cup Parmesan, and 3/4 cup mozzarella. Stir constantly until all the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.

11. 11

    Garnish with 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.