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 Cheesy Beef & Penne Bake for a weeknight meal and it instantly became a family favorite. It is always a hit at potlucks and brings everyone together at the table.
Ingredients
- Penne pasta: 400 g (14 oz)
- Ground beef: 500 g (1.1 lb)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Tomato passata or marinara sauce: 700 ml (24 oz)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Dried Italian herbs: 1 tsp (or a mix of oregano basil thyme)
- Red pepper flakes: ½ tsp (optional)
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 200 g (2 cups)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 50 g (½ cup)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Cook the pasta:
- Cook penne pasta in boiling salted water for 2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Brown the beef:
- Add ground beef breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned about 6 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Make the sauce:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute. Add tomato passata Italian herbs red pepper flakes salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine pasta and sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to coat evenly.
- Layer and assemble:
- Pour half the pasta mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan. Top with remaining pasta and cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Rest and serve:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save We love sharing this dish on cozy nights at home or bringing it along to potlucks—it is always scraped clean by family and friends.
Serving Ideas
Pair this bake with a simple green salad and warm bread for a complete meal that is perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredient Swaps
Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version or add sautéed mushrooms spinach or peppers for an extra vegetable boost.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat well in the oven or microwave.
Save This Cheesy Beef & Penne Bake is the ultimate comfort food and always puts smiles on faces. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Cooking Guide
- → Can I use a different pasta type?
Yes, short pasta shapes like rigatoni or ziti work well as they hold sauces and bake nicely.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cooking the pasta slightly under al dente before baking ensures it finishes cooking in the oven without getting soggy.
- → What cheeses suit this dish best?
Mozzarella provides meltiness while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor, combining for a rich topping.
- → Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can be stirred in before baking to add color and nutrition.
- → Is it possible to substitute ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as leaner alternatives without compromising the hearty texture.