Save to Pinterest 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 & Penne Bake has quickly become a favorite during busy weeknights when we want something warm 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
- 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.
- 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.
- Cook 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.
- Add sauce ingredients:
- 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 and sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture.
- Assemble casserole:
- 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 and serve:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest This dish is always a hit at family dinners, creating warm moments around the table as everyone enjoys the comforting flavors.
Optional Add-ins
Add sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach to increase vegetable content and flavor variety.
Serving Suggestions
Pairs well with a green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage and Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Save to Pinterest This comforting casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as delicious leftovers.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?
Cook the penne pasta for 2 minutes less than package instructions since it will finish cooking in the oven, ensuring it remains firm and not mushy.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives to ground beef for a lighter version while maintaining flavor.
- → What cheese types are best for the topping?
A combination of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan offers a rich, golden, and bubbling cheese crust when baked.
- → Are there recommended vegetables to add?
Sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach can be added to increase veggie content and enhance the dish’s flavor.
- → What herbs complement this bake?
Dried Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme work well in the sauce; fresh basil or parsley can be added before serving for brightness.