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 mid-week dinner when we needed something extra comforting. It quickly became a favorite because everyone loves the hearty layers and gooey cheese.
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 the 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.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- 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 and cooked through, about 6 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Make 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 & Assemble:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat pasta in the sauce and beef mixture. Pour half into the prepared dish, sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan, add remaining pasta, then top with the rest of the cheeses.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Serve:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save This bake reminds me of Sunday dinners when everyone is gathered at the table and the bubbling cheese brings smiles all around. The leftovers are always fought over the next day!
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy casserole pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad and a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Recipe Variations
Add sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach for more vegetables, or toss in some fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the oven or microwave until hot and cheese is bubbling again.
Save This casserole brings warmth to any table and is just as delicious the next day for lunch or leftovers.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives for a lighter variation.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the penne slightly under al dente by boiling 2 minutes less than recommended, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
- → What cheeses work best for the topping?
Mozzarella and Parmesan create a rich, golden, bubbly topping, balancing creaminess and flavor.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach can be added to increase vegetable content and enhance flavor.
- → How long should I let the dish rest after baking?
Allow 5 minutes for the dish to rest to set and make serving easier.