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 first made this penne bake on a busy weeknight, and my family devoured every bite. It's now my go-to recipe when I need something hearty that everyone will enjoy.
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. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 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.
- Make Sauce:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 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 & Top:
- 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:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save This recipe has become a regular request at my family gatherings—even picky eaters ask for seconds! Sharing it straight from our weekend dinner table to yours.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy bake with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Allergen Info
Contains wheat and milk. Always check packaged ingredients if you need a nut free version.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving provides about 520 calories, 22 g fat, 52 g carbohydrates, and 29 g protein.
Save Bring everyone to the table with this easy, cheesy beef & penne bake. You'll love how simple and tasty dinnertime can be!
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best for this bake?
Penne is ideal due to its shape and ability to hold sauce well, but rigatoni or ziti can be great alternatives.
- → Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Mozzarella and Parmesan offer a creamy and sharp contrast, but cheddar or fontina can also add delicious flavor.
- → How do I ensure the pasta doesn't overcook?
Cook penne slightly under al dente before baking, allowing it to finish cooking in the oven without becoming mushy.
- → Can this dish be customized with vegetables?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can be stirred in for extra texture and nutrition.
- → What is the best way to brown the beef evenly?
Cook ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink and nicely browned for full flavor development.