Pin it 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.
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
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Step 2:
- 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.
- Step 3:
- 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.
- Step 4:
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Step 5:
- 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.
- Step 6:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture.
- Step 7:
- 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.
- Step 8:
- Bake uncovered for 20 25 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Step 9:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Pin it 
Pin it Add sautéed mushrooms peppers or spinach for more vegetables. Pairs well with a green salad and crusty bread.
Recipe FAQs
- → How should the penne pasta be cooked before baking?
Cook the penne pasta in boiling salted water for two minutes less than package instructions to prevent overcooking during baking.
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives for a lighter variation.
- → What cheeses are best for a flavorful topping?
Shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan combine well to create a golden, bubbling, and savory crust.
- → Are there optional ingredients to add more flavor or veggies?
Fresh basil or parsley added before serving enhances freshness, and sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach can increase veggie content.
- → What tools are recommended for preparation?
A large pot for pasta, skillet for cooking beef and sauce, and a baking dish for assembling and baking are essential.
- → How long should the dish rest after baking?
Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes after baking to thicken and settle before serving.