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 busy weeknight when my family needed something filling and satisfying. It quickly became a favorite comfort meal in our household, requested often for Sunday dinners.
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.
- Boil 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 Vegetables:
- 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.
- Cook Beef:
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Sauce Ingredients:
- 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 & Cheese:
- 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 Serving this bake always brings the family together. Its cheesy aroma gets everyone around the table, and seeing empty plates at the end makes every effort worth it.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, baking dish (approx. 23x33 cm / 9x13 in), wooden spoon, chefs knife, cutting board, colander
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and milk (dairy). Always review packaged ingredients for possible nut traces or other allergens if needed.
Nutritional Information
One serving contains approximately 520 calories, 22 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, and 29 g protein.
Save This casserole makes leftovers just as tasty the next day. Try reheating gently and serving with a side salad for a complete meal.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute another meat for ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef while maintaining savory flavor and texture.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook penne two minutes less than package directions so it finishes cooking in the oven and stays firm.
- → What cheeses work best for topping?
Mozzarella offers great melting qualities, while Parmesan adds a nutty, salty finish. Try provolone or cheddar too.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Sauté mushrooms, peppers, or spinach with the onions for extra nutrition and flavor.
- → Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Absolutely. Cool completely, portion, and freeze. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly.
- → Which herbs pair well in this dish?
Dry Italian herbs work perfectly, and fresh basil or parsley added before serving lifts the flavors.