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 dish quickly became a family favorite after the first try and always brings everyone to the table with smiles.
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
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Step 2:
- 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.
- Step 3:
- 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.
- Step 4:
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Step 5:
- 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.
- Step 6:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture.
- Step 7:
- 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.
- Step 8:
- Bake uncovered for 20 25 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Step 9:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Pin 
Gathering around the table with a warm serving of this bake always creates wonderful family moments.
Required Tools
Large pot, Large skillet, Baking dish approx 23x33 cm (9x13 in), Wooden spoon, Chefs knife and cutting board, Colander
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten), Milk (dairy). Check all packaged ingredients for traces of nuts or other allergens if required.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 520, Total Fat 22 g, Carbohydrates 52 g, Protein 29 g
Pin This cheesy beef and penne bake is an easy, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best?
Penne pasta holds sauces well and retains a nice texture when baked, making it ideal for this dish.
- → Can I use other meats instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cooking the pasta slightly less than package directions ensures it finishes cooking perfectly during baking.
- → What cheeses are used here?
Shredded mozzarella provides meltiness while grated Parmesan adds a sharp, savory finish on top.
- → Can I add more vegetables?
Sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
- → Is there a recommended seasoning for the sauce?
Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme create a well-rounded tomato sauce with a hint of spice from optional red pepper flakes.