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, it was an instant hit at our weeknight dinner. It's now a regular in our rotation because everyone always asks for seconds!
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 (it will finish cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Meanwhile, 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 Meat:
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Build Sauce:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute. Add tomato passata, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture.
- Layer & Top:
- Pour half the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and half the 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 & Serve:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save This bake brings everyone together around the table – my kids especially love tugging cheesy strands from the casserole. It's just the kind of meal that feels like home.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, baking dish (approx. 23x33 cm / 9x13 in), wooden spoon, chef's knife and cutting board, colander.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 520 calories, 22 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, and 29 g protein.
Notes & Swaps
Swap in ground turkey or chicken, add mushrooms or spinach for more veggies, or sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving to switch up the flavor.
Save This cheesy casserole will leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds. Enjoy hearty comfort with every bite!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, other sturdy pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or shells work well as they hold sauce and bake nicely.
- → How do I know when the cheese is perfectly baked?
The cheese should be melted, golden brown, and bubbling on top, typically after 20-25 minutes in the oven.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it in advance and refrigerate. Bake fresh before serving, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.
- → What are good side dishes to pair with this bake?
Fresh green salads, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement the rich and cheesy flavors well.
- → Is it possible to substitute beef with other proteins?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives without sacrificing flavor.