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.
The first time I made this cheesy beef & penne bake was on a chilly weeknight, when everyone craved something warm and hearty. It became an instant favorite—no leftovers!
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 & Dish:
- 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.
- Saute Veggies:
- 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 Beef:
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through (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 5 minutes.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat pasta with the sauce and beef mixture.
- Layer Ingredients:
- Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan. Add remaining pasta then top with the rest of the cheeses.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Rest & Serve:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save This recipe brings everyone together around the dinner table for seconds—it is literally the dish my kids request most often, and it's always met with big smiles.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, baking dish (23x33 cm / 9x13 in), wooden spoon, chef's knife, cutting board, colander
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 520 calories, 22 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, 29 g protein
Recipe Notes
For extra flavor, add a handful of fresh basil or parsley before serving. Substitute ground turkey or chicken if beef is not preferred, and feel free to add mushrooms, peppers, or spinach for more vegetables.
Save This dish is best served hot and fresh from the oven, with a crisp green salad on the side. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter variation without losing flavor or texture.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?
Cook penne just 2 minutes less than package instructions; it will finish cooking during baking, maintaining firmness.
- → What cheeses work best for the topping?
Mozzarella provides meltiness while Parmesan adds sharpness and golden color; a perfect combination for this dish.
- → Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach make great additions for extra flavor and nutrients.
- → What herbs enhance the tomato sauce?
Dried oregano, basil, and thyme add depth and aromatic qualities to the sauce, complementing the beef and cheese.