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 bake for a busy weeknight dinner, and my family loved how cheesy and flavorful it was. Even the leftovers disappear quickly!
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
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Instructions
- Prepare the oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Cook the pasta:
- Boil penne pasta in salted water for 2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the beef mixture:
- Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Brown the beef:
- Add ground beef, break up with spoon, and cook until fully browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Prepare the sauce:
- Stir in tomato paste, cook 1 minute. Add tomato passata, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
- Combine pasta and sauce:
- Stir cooked pasta into the beef mixture until coated.
- Layer and cheese:
- Pour half the mixture into baking dish, sprinkle half the mozzarella and Parmesan. Add the rest of the mixture, top with remaining cheeses.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered 20 to 25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Rest and serve:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save 
Save This dish is always requested at family gatherings, and my kids love helping sprinkle the cheese before it bakes.
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 packaged ingredients for traces of nuts or other allergens if needed.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 520, Total Fat 22 g, Carbohydrates 52 g, Protein 29 g
Save 
Save Enjoy this cheesy beef and penne bake straight from the oven while the cheese is still bubbling. It's comfort food at its finest!
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives for a lighter variation without compromising the dish's flavor and texture.
- → How should I cook the pasta before baking?
Cook the penne pasta until al dente, draining it slightly undercooked as it will finish cooking in the oven, ensuring a perfect texture.
- → What cheeses work best in this bake?
Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses are ideal for their melting properties and sharp flavor that complements the savory elements.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely, sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition and flavor complexity.
- → Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving for convenience without losing quality.
- → What herbs enhance the tomato sauce flavor?
Italian herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme blend well, providing aromatic depth and a balanced savory note.
