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 when I wanted a cozy meal that everyone would happily dig into. It's been a go-to for casual gatherings ever since—especially when I want to meal prep or feed a hungry crowd with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- Penne pasta: 400 g (14 oz), cooked 2 minutes less than package directions
- Ground beef: 500 g (1.1 lb)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Tomato passata or marinara sauce: 700 ml (24 oz)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Dried Italian herbs: 1 tsp (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Red pepper flakes: ½ tsp (optional)
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 200 g (2 cups)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 50 g (½ cup)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prep Oven & Dish:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook penne in salted boiling water for 2 minutes less than package recommends. Drain and set aside.
- Start Sauce Base:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.
- Brown Beef:
- Add ground beef, breaking it up. Cook until browned and cooked through, 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Sauce Ingredients:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute. Add passata, herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to skillet. Stir to coat with sauce and beef mixture.
- Assemble Bake:
- Pour half the pasta mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle with half mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat with remaining pasta and cheeses.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered 20–25 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Rest & Serve:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save This recipe has become a beloved favorite at our table, especially when everyone gathers for a relaxed weeknight dinner. There's always someone sneaking back to the kitchen for an extra cheesy scoop.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread to mop up all the saucy goodness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley brightens the dish.
Add-Ins & Variations
Try adding sautéed mushrooms, sweet bell peppers, or baby spinach for an extra boost of veggies. You can also use a different cheese blend or swap in gluten-free pasta if needed.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully. You can even assemble the bake ahead and refrigerate until you're ready to bake it fresh.
Save Dig in while it's hot and bubbly—this cheesy bake is sure to satisfy every appetite at your table!
Recipe Help
- → How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the penne for two minutes less than package directions to keep it firm before baking. It will finish cooking in the oven without turning mushy.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead for a lighter variation without altering the dish’s overall texture.
- → What cheeses work best for the topping?
A combination of shredded mozzarella for meltiness and grated Parmesan for a sharp flavor creates a golden, bubbling crust.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables to the dish?
Definitely. Sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach mix well into the sauce and add extra nutrients and texture.
- → How can I enhance the flavor before serving?
Adding fresh basil or parsley just before serving brings brightness and fresh herbal notes to the rich, cheesy bake.