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.
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
- 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.
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.