01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
02 -
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate.
03 -
Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until the onions are translucent and aromatic, about 3 to 4 minutes.
04 -
Mix in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Pour in heavy cream and beef broth, whisking continuously. Allow to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
05 -
Return cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the sauce. Add drained penne pasta and toss until well combined and heated through.
06 -
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately while hot.