Save to Pinterest 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 baked this cheesy beef & penne casserole for a chilly Sunday dinner, and my family loved how the bubbling cheese paired with the rich tomato sauce. It's become our favorite dish for potlucks and cozy gatherings, with requests for seconds every time.
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); 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Dairy: 200 g (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese; 50 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Oils: 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- 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 vegetables:
- 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, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6, 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Simmer 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 and sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture.
- Assemble casserole:
- 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 and serve:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest This casserole brings everyone around the table—kids especially love the stretchy mozzarella topping and I love that leftovers taste even better the next day.
Required Tools
To prepare this recipe, you'll need a large pot, large skillet, baking dish (approximately 23x33 cm / 9x13 in), wooden spoon, chef's knife, cutting board, and a colander.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 520 calories, 22 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, and 29 g protein.
Notes & Variations
For extra flavor, add fresh basil or parsley before serving, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef, or include mushrooms, peppers, or spinach for more vegetables. It pairs perfectly with a green salad and crusty bread.
Save to Pinterest This bake is wonderful for guests or busy weeknights. Make ahead, refrigerate, and reheat for the simplest comfort food any time.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well and provide a lighter alternative while keeping the dish flavorful.
- → How do I prevent pasta from overcooking?
Cook penne for two minutes less than package directions as it will finish cooking in the oven, ensuring it stays firm.
- → What herbs enhance the tomato sauce best?
Dried oregano, basil, and thyme add classic Italian flavors, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach can be mixed in for added nutrition and color.
- → What is the best way to achieve a golden cheese topping?
Bake uncovered at 200°C (400°F) until the cheese melts and forms a bubbling, golden crust, usually 20-25 minutes.