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.
When I first made this Cheesy Beef & Penne Bake, my family instantly fell in love with its rich flavor and gooey cheese topping. It quickly became our go-to recipe for busy weeknights and gatherings.
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
- Prep Oven & Dish:
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- Make 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 & Sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture.
- Layer:
- 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 Sharing this casserole at a big family dinner always brings everyone together—it disappears fast and always gets rave reviews.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, baking dish (approx. 23x33 cm / 9x13 in), wooden spoon, chefs knife and cutting board, colander
Notes
For extra flavor, add a handful of fresh basil or parsley before serving. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef if preferred. Add sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach for more vegetables. Pairs well with a green salad and crusty bread.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 520, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 52 g, Protein: 29 g (per serving)
Save This casserole makes for great leftovers too—just reheat and enjoy. The golden cheese topping is always a winner at the table.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → Can I use different pasta types?
Yes, penne is ideal for holding sauce, but rigatoni or ziti work well too, maintaining a similar texture and bake consistency.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Adding extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture before baking enhances the heat without overpowering the flavors.
- → Is it possible to prepare ahead?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish and refrigerate for a few hours, then bake as instructed. This helps flavors meld beautifully.
- → What cheese combinations work best?
Mozzarella offers creaminess, while Parmesan adds depth. Mixing both creates a balanced, bubbling golden crust.
- → Can vegetables be added?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can be mixed in with the beef and sauce for extra texture and nutrition.