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.
This cheesy beef and penne bake is one of my family's favorites especially on busy weeknights when I want something filling and satisfying with minimal fuss.
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 My family always gathers around the table smiling when this dish is served it brings warmth and joy to our dinners.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a handful of fresh basil or parsley before serving. 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.
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten), Milk (dairy). Check all packaged ingredients for traces of nuts or other allergens if required.
Pin it This cheesy beef and penne bake is a simple comfort food favorite that pleases all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of pasta works best in this dish?
Penne pasta is ideal due to its shape which holds the sauce well, but other tubular pastas like rigatoni can be used as substitutes.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving to enjoy the melted cheesy topping.
- → Is there a way to add more vegetables?
Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be stirred into the beef sauce to boost vegetable content and flavor.
- → How do I achieve a golden cheese crust?
Baking uncovered at 200°C (400°F) allows the cheese topping to bubble and brown nicely, creating a delicious crust.
- → Can other cheeses be used in this bake?
While mozzarella and Parmesan provide a classic flavor and melt, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar or provolone for different profiles.
- → What seasoning enhances the flavor of the meat sauce?
Dried Italian herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme complement the tomato and beef perfectly, while garlic and red pepper flakes add depth and mild heat.