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.
When I first made this cheesy beef & penne bake, my family asked for seconds before the dish even cooled. The blend of flavors, tender pasta, and melty cheese makes this a dinner favorite in our house.
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 and pan:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Cook pasta:
- Boil penne pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions, then drain and set aside.
- Cook aromatics:
- 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, break it up, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add sauce and seasonings:
- 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 pasta and sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture.
- Layer and cheese:
- Pour half the pasta mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and 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:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save This dish always brings everyone to the table with smiles. It's a perfect weeknight comfort meal for busy families and a childhood classic that never fails.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, baking dish (approx. 23x33 cm / 9x13 in), wooden spoon, chefs knife and cutting board, colander.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and milk (dairy). Always check labels for possible traces of nuts or other allergens according to your needs.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 520, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 52 g, Protein: 29 g.
Save This casserole is best enjoyed hot from the oven, with plenty of gooey cheese. Make extra, because everyone will want seconds!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives to ground beef for a lighter variation.
- → How do I avoid overcooking the penne pasta?
Cook the penne for 2 minutes less than package instructions since it will finish cooking in the oven, keeping it tender but firm.
- → What cheeses work best for the topping?
Mozzarella provides meltiness and stretch, while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor enhancing the golden crust.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach can be added for extra color, texture, and nutrients.
- → What herbs complement the flavors?
Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme balance the savory beef and tomato sauce perfectly.