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 on a cold evening when my family was craving something warm and filling. Ever since, it has become our go-to casserole for sharing with friends or bringing to potlucks—always a hit!
Ingredients
- Penne pasta: 400 g (14 oz)
- Ground beef: 500 g (1.1 lb)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Tomato passata/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
- Mozzarella cheese: 200 g (2 cups), shredded
- Parmesan cheese: 50 g (½ cup), grated
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
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.
- Prepare Aromatics:
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3 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 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.
- Add Pasta:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture.
- Layer & Cheese:
- 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 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Rest & Serve:
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save Family meals are always more fun when we dig into this cheesy casserole together, every bite packed with comforting flavors and a golden top everyone loves.
Serving Suggestions
This bake is wonderful with a crisp green salad and a side of crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce.
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or add sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach for extra vegetables and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly.
Save This recipe brings everyone to the table and makes leftovers you’ll be happy to enjoy the next day!
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, short pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli work well and hold sauce effectively.
- → How to ensure the cheese melts evenly?
Distribute shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly between layers before baking for a golden, bubbly crust.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking for convenience.
- → What herbs enhance the tomato sauce?
Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme add depth and complement the beef and tomato flavors beautifully.
- → How to add more vegetables to the dish?
Try sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach stirred into the beef mixture for extra nutrition and color.
- → Is it possible to make this without beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes to lighten the dish while maintaining flavor.