Save 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.
My family loves this dish because it's a complete meal in one pan and always a crowd-pleaser. It's my go-to for a delicious, easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- penne pasta: 400 g (14 oz)
- ground beef: 500 g (1.1 lb)
- medium onion: 1, finely chopped
- garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- tomato passata or marinara sauce: 700 ml (24 oz)
- tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- dried Italian herbs: 1 tsp (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- red pepper flakes: ½ tsp (optional)
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- shredded mozzarella cheese: 200 g (2 cups)
- grated Parmesan cheese: 50 g (½ cup)
- olive oil: 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Cook penne 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.
- Sauté aromatics:
- 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.
- Brown ground 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.
- Simmer 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 with pasta:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture.
- Assemble and layer:
- 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:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save I remember making this for my son's birthday party last year, and it was a huge hit. Everyone asked for the recipe!
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
Save This cheesy beef and penne bake is guaranteed to be a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious layers of flavor and texture!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute ground beef?
Absolutely. You can swap the beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat according to preference.
- → What vegetables work well in this bake?
Add mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor varieties.
- → How do I prevent dry pasta in the bake?
Cook pasta slightly less than package instructions so it finishes baking tender and does not overcook.
- → Can mozzarella be replaced?
You may use cheddar, provolone, or any melt-friendly cheese for a different taste or texture.
- → Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes. Cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze. Reheat covered in the oven for best results.
- → What sides pair nicely?
Try serving with a fresh green salad and warm, crusty bread for a balanced meal experience.