Pin A hearty comforting casserole featuring tender penne pasta savory ground beef rich tomato sauce and a golden bubbling cheese topping—perfect for family dinners or potlucks
This cozy recipe has become a family favorite especially during chilly evenings when comfort food is just what we need
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) penne pasta
- Meats: 500 g (1.1 lb) ground beef
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion finely chopped 2 cloves garlic minced
- Sauce: 700 ml (24 oz) tomato passata or marinara sauce 2 tbsp tomato paste 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano basil thyme) ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) Salt and black pepper to taste
- Dairy: 200 g (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese 50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Oils: 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) Lightly grease a large baking dish
- Cook pasta:
- Cook penne pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water for 2 minutes less than package directions (it will finish cooking in the oven) Drain and set aside
- Cook vegetables:
- Meanwhile heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add onion and cook 3 4 minutes until soft Add garlic and cook 1 minute more
- Cook beef:
- Add ground beef breaking it up with a spoon Cook until browned and cooked through about 6 8 minutes Drain excess fat if necessary
- Add sauce:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute Add tomato passata Italian herbs red pepper flakes (if using) salt and pepper Simmer for 5 minutes
- Combine pasta:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet Stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture
- Assemble bake:
- Pour half the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and half the Parmesan Add remaining pasta then top with the rest of the cheeses
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20 25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbling
- Rest and serve:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving
Pin This dish always brings my family together around the table sharing stories and laughter
Notes
For extra flavor add a handful of fresh basil or parsley before serving Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef if preferred Add sautéed mushrooms peppers or spinach for more vegetables Pairs well with a green salad and crusty bread
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Baking dish (approx 23x33 cm / 9x13 in) Wooden spoon Chefs knife and cutting board Colander
Nutritional Information
Calories 520 Total Fat 22 g Carbohydrates 52 g Protein 29 g
Pin This cheesy beef and penne bake is a reliable go-to meal that never disappoints
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternative proteins for a lighter flavor profile.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?
Cook the penne for 2 minutes less than package instructions since it finishes cooking in the oven.
- → What cheeses work best for the topping?
A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan melts well and adds both creaminess and a savory crust.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach can be stirred in for added texture and nutrients.
- → What herbs enhance the sauce flavors?
Dried Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme complement the tomato sauce perfectly, with an optional touch of red pepper flakes for heat.
