Save It 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 cheesy beef & penne bake on a cold weeknight, and my whole family loved how the bubbly cheese and savory beef transformed simple pasta into something truly special. This dish always brings everyone to the table with smiles.
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
- Prep Oven and 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 the oven). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- 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.
- Brown 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.
- 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 Pasta and Sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture.
- Layer and 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 20–25 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Rest and Serve:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save It This bake is always a hit at our family gatherings—there’s always someone coming back for seconds, and it warms the whole kitchen as it cooks.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a handful of fresh basil or parsley before serving. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef, and add sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach for more vegetables.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, baking dish (approx. 23x33 cm / 9x13 in), wooden spoon, chef’s knife and cutting board, colander.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 520, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 52 g, Protein: 29 g (per serving).
Save It This comforting dish comes together quickly and brings everyone to the table. Leftovers reheat wonderfully for an easy next-day meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well. This keeps the dish lighter with the same savory flavor.
- → What pasta shape is best?
Penne holds sauce and cheese beautifully, but ziti or rigatoni also work for this baked dish.
- → How do I prevent overcooked pasta?
Boil penne for 2 minutes less than package instructions. It finishes cooking in the oven for the ideal texture.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Cool completely, slice, and freeze in airtight containers. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- → Is this suitable for nut-free diets?
Yes, if all packaged ingredients are confirmed nut-free. Always check labels for cross-contamination.
- → How can I add vegetables?
Mix in sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach before baking for extra flavor and nutrition.