Save to Pinterest A hearty comforting casserole featuring tender penne pasta savory ground beef rich tomato sauce and a golden bubbling cheese topping is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
I first made this cheesy beef & penne bake on a busy weeknight and was amazed by how much everyone loved it. The bubbling cheese and savory beef make it comfort food at its best.
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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
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Instructions
- Prepare oven & dish:
- 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 oven). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Meanwhile heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Brown beef:
- Add ground beef breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through about 6 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 pasta & beef:
- Add cooked pasta to skillet. Stir to coat all pasta in sauce and beef mixture.
- Layer & add cheese:
- Pour half pasta mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half mozzarella and half Parmesan. Add remaining pasta top with rest of cheeses.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Rest & serve:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest My kids always ask for seconds of this casserole. It has become a regular favorite for Sunday dinners with extended family.
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Required Tools
Large pot large skillet baking dish (approx. 23x33 cm 9x13 in) wooden spoon chefs knife and cutting board colander
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 520 Total Fat: 22 g Carbohydrates: 52 g Protein: 29 g
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.
Save to Pinterest 
This casserole is just right for feeding a crowd. Enjoy every melty cheesy forkful while it is warm and fresh.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best?
Penne pasta holds sauce well and maintains a pleasing texture when baked, making it ideal for this dish.
- → Can I use a different meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter variation without compromising flavor.
- → How do I avoid overcooking the pasta?
Boil the pasta slightly underdone as it will finish cooking in the oven, preventing mushiness.
- → What cheeses are recommended?
Shredded mozzarella provides meltiness while grated Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty finish.
- → Can I add vegetables?
Sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach blend well to boost flavor and nutrition.
