If you’re craving comfort food that warms your soul and satisfies your hunger, this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender penne pasta smothered in a savory tomato sauce, hearty ground beef, and loads of melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese baked to golden perfection. This dish is a family-friendly winner that’s as delicious as it is easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends. Once you try this recipe, it’s destined to become one of your all-time favorites!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the first step to making this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe shine. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender pasta providing the perfect base, to the ground beef adding protein and richness, while the cheeses melt into a luscious, creamy topping that pulls the entire dish together.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: Choose a good-quality pasta that can hold the sauce beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty flavor and satisfying texture to this pasta bake.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that enhances every bite.
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce: Forms the rich, savory base of the sauce.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: Gives texture and a fresh tomato pop to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses classic Italian flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates all the savory ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to round out the taste.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible cheesy pull.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, sharp note to complement the mozzarella.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing and adds a silky richness.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional): A fresh, aromatic touch that brightens the entire dish.
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 to 13 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and optionally drizzle a little olive oil over it to prevent sticking. Setting aside perfectly cooked pasta is crucial because it’ll soak up that savory sauce in the next steps.
Step 2: Cooking the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes – this softens the onion and releases its natural sweetness. Then add the minced garlic and cook for just a minute more, allowing the aroma to bloom. Now, add the ground beef, breaking it up as you cook until it’s thoroughly browned, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the sauce from getting greasy.
Step 3: Creating the Sauce
To the browned beef, stir in the tomato sauce and the can of diced tomatoes with all their juices. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, then mix everything until well combined. Let the sauce come to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and allow it to gently bubble for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time lets all those flavors meld into a rich, hearty sauce.
Step 4: Combining Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in that luscious tomato and beef mixture. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the pasta and fold gently to combine, setting the stage for the cheese to melt perfectly in the next step.
Step 5: Baking the Cheesy Penne
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly for even cooking. If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some extra mozzarella on top to get an irresistibly gooey, golden crust. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese bubbles and turns a gorgeous golden brown – this final step creates that classic baked pasta delight.
Step 6: Serving the Dish
Once out of the oven, let your Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe rest for 5 minutes to set up slightly – this makes serving easier and lets the flavors fully settle. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if you like, adding a pop of color and freshness. Serve it up hot, perfect alongside a crisp side salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete, comforting meal.
How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves is a fabulous way to add brightness and a touch of herbal freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and meat. You can also add a light dusting of extra Parmesan if you want a sharp, salty finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta bake pairs beautifully with simple sides like a mixed green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette, or crunchy garlic bread that’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables also make a healthy and colorful accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with extra cheese and basil. You could also add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the dish just before serving for a tangy-sweet contrast that’s unexpected but delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. It makes for perfect next-day lunches or quick dinners, reheating wonderfully without losing any of the original flavors.
Freezing
If you want to stock up, this baked pasta can be frozen for up to two months. Just cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, covering loosely with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal because it holds sauce well, you can substitute with ziti, rigatoni, or even rotini. Skip delicate shapes like angel hair, as they won’t hold up well in the bake.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap out the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a delicious meatless version.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Totally, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Assemble the pasta, sauce, and cheese mixture, then store it covered in the fridge and bake it fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic for a reason; mozzarella melts smoothly and Parmesan adds sharpness. Feel free to experiment with provolone or fontina for a twist.
How can I make the dish less spicy?
This recipe isn’t inherently spicy, but if you want to tone down any seasoning, just reduce or omit the black pepper, and stick to mild or sweet Italian seasoning blends.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe enough for anyone looking to bring comfort and joy to the dinner table without fuss. It’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Go ahead, give it a try—you’ll be amazed how quickly it can become a staple in your meal rotation!
Print
Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Cheesy Penne Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender penne pasta combined with savory ground beef and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. Topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this baked casserole is perfect for satisfying family dinners or meal prep, offering gooey, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
pasta and cheese
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
meat and sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preparing the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and stir occasionally. Cook according to package instructions (11-13 minutes) until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Optionally, drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cooking the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Creating the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juices. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, then mix well. Bring the sauce to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to deepen the flavors.
- Combining Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the sauce and ground beef. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture and stir gently to combine.
- Baking the Cheesy Penne: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Optionally, sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top for an even cheesier crust. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serving the Dish: Remove the baked penne from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot, alongside a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat leftovers, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms.
- Be sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
