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 for a family gathering, and it quickly became a favorite thanks to its comforting flavors and bubbly cheese topping.
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:
- 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:
- 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.
- 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 & Sauce:
- 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 20–25 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Rest & Serve:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save It This casserole is a guaranteed hit at our table, especially when shared with loved ones around a cozy dinner.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, baking dish (approx. 23x33 cm / 9x13 in), wooden spoon, chef's knife and cutting board, colander
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), Milk (dairy). Always check packaged ingredients for traces of nuts or other allergens if needed.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 520 calories, 22 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, 29 g protein.
Save It This cheesy beef & penne bake tastes even better as leftovers—simply reheat and enjoy!
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, rigatoni or ziti work well if penne isn't available, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
- → How do I make it vegetarian?
Swap beef for lentils or sautéed mushrooms for a flavorful vegetarian alternative.
- → What cheeses can be substituted?
Try cheddar or provolone instead of mozzarella for a different melting texture and flavor.
- → Can leftovers be reheated?
Absolutely! Cover and reheat in the oven or microwave until hot, adding a splash of sauce if needed.
- → Is it freezer-friendly?
Freeze after baking or before. Wrap well. Thaw and reheat, adding fresh cheese on top for best results.
- → How do I make it spicier?
Increase red pepper flakes, add diced jalapeño, or serve with hot sauce for more kick.