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.
I remember making this cheesy beef & penne bake for our first neighborhood potluck. It quickly became a favorite, with the entire dish disappearing in minutes.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- 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 the oven). Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3 until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Cook Beef:
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Make 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:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture.
- Layer & Assemble:
- 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 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Rest & Serve:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save This cheesy casserole is a staple for our family gatherings. The kids love helping layer the pasta and cheese before the whole house fills with a tempting aroma.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this rich bake with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. Garlic bread is also a favorite side.
Recipe Variations
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef, or add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving provides approximately 520 calories, 22 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, and 29 g protein.
Save Perfect for meal prep and delicious even as leftovers, this beef & penne bake is sure to become a reliable family favorite.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure thorough browning.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?
Cook the penne 2 minutes less than package directions—this allows it to finish baking without becoming mushy.
- → What cheeses can I use besides mozzarella and Parmesan?
Try provolone or cheddar for a different flavor, but mozzarella and Parmesan create a classic golden crust.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach into the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Let the bake cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave.
- → Can this bake be made ahead?
Yes, assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.