Pin it 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 cheesy beef & penne bake has become a favorite in my household especially on busy weeknights when I want something filling and easy to make.
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 it Sharing this dish has led to many cozy family dinners filled with laughter and full plates.
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
Calories 520 Total Fat 22 g Carbohydrates 52 g Protein 29 g (per serving)
Pin it This cheesy bake is a simple yet satisfying meal guaranteed to please the whole family.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can ground turkey be used instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef, offering a lighter variation while maintaining flavor.
- → How to prevent pasta from overcooking?
Cooking penne for 2 minutes less than package instructions ensures it finishes cooking in the oven, avoiding mushiness.
- → What herbs enhance the sauce's flavor?
Dried Italian herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme complement the tomato sauce perfectly, adding depth.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Absolutely, sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach can be mixed in for added texture and nutrients.
- → What side dishes pair well with this bake?
A fresh green salad and crusty bread make excellent accompaniments to balance the richness.
- → Can the dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, assembling the layers in advance and refrigerating before baking can save time on serving day.