If you’re craving a dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender penne pasta bathed in a rich tomato sauce, infused with savory ground beef, and topped with a luscious blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses that melt into gooey perfection. It’s comfort food at its best, easy enough for any weeknight yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. This dish checks all the boxes for hearty, flavorful, and downright delicious, making it a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients often bring the most incredible flavors, and for this recipe, each one plays a vital role in building layers of taste, texture, and color. From the al dente penne to the aromatic garlic and perfectly seasoned ground beef, everything combines beautifully to create a satisfying meal.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the sauce and cheese in every bite.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds rich, savory flavor and a hearty protein boost.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and an irresistible aroma to the dish.
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, tangy base for the sauce.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds texture and bursts of fresh tomato flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that ties the flavors seamlessly together.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing every ingredient’s natural taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick that brightens the overall dish.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Delivers gooey, melty goodness that you’ll swoon over.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish that elevates the flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing and prevent sticking, also adding richness.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional): A pop of color and fresh herbal brightness to finish the dish.
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and keep it moving with occasional stirs to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta just until al dente—firm to the bite but not hard—usually about 11 to 13 minutes depending on your brand. Once done, drain it well and, if you like, drizzle a touch of olive oil to keep the noodles from clumping together. This ensures every piece is ready to soak up that delicious sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef with Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté gently until it softens and turns translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic next, cooking for just another minute until fragrant—this is the moment when your kitchen starts to smell irresistible. Now add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula, and cook thoroughly until browned and no longer pink, around 5 to 7 minutes. If you find excess fat, feel free to drain it to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Tomato Sauce
With the beef perfectly browned, pour in the tomato sauce and the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, stirring everything to combine. Bring your sauce to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat to keep it bubbling softly. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring from time to time to meld all those wonderful flavors together. This simmering step truly brings the dish to life.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce, Add the Cheese
Now it’s time to marry the cooked penne with that luscious sauce. Toss the drained pasta gently in the skillet so each piece is evenly coated. Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, then fold them into the warm mixture just until they start to melt and create a creamy, cheesy texture. This stage transforms the dish into a cheesy masterpiece.
Step 5: Bake for That Perfect Golden Finish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the cheesy pasta and beef mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If you want to take it over the top, sprinkle an extra handful of mozzarella on top. Pop it into the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, just long enough for the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown. This crisp, cheesy crust is one of the best things about this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe.
Step 6: Rest and Prepare to Serve
When the timer dings, pull the dish out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This short wait helps everything set slightly, making it easier to serve and savor every bite. If you like, add a few fresh basil leaves right before serving for a lovely burst of greenery and a touch of herbal zing.
How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a fantastic finishing touch that brings vibrant color and refreshing herbal notes to the dish. For an added zing, consider sprinkling a tiny bit of extra Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. You can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil before serving to enhance richness and shine.
Side Dishes
This meal pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad—think mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette—to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls make the perfect vehicle for mopping up any leftover sauce, turning every morsel into a delight. Steamed or roasted veggies, like broccoli or green beans, add color and nutrition without complicating flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family-style meal, serve the cheesy penne straight from the baking dish so everyone can help themselves to the bubbling goodness. If you’re entertaining, scoop portions into pretty bowls, garnish individually, and offer a small grater of Parmesan at the table for that interactive touch. You could also sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your feast, pack any leftovers into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. The Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe keeps wonderfully for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
This dish freezes really well if you want to prep in advance. Use freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out and heat at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Stir halfway through reheating if microwaving to ensure even warmth and to keep that cheesy goodness soft and melty.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce and cheese, other sturdy pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or even rotini would work beautifully in this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe.
Is ground beef necessary, or can I substitute it?
You can definitely swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives depending on your preferences. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is fully cooked.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the penne pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a great recipe for those with sensitivities.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce while it’s simmering, or mix them into the cheese layer before baking. You could also serve with a spicy hot sauce on the side to let everyone adjust the heat to their liking.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare everything up to combining and baking the pasta, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s hot all the way through.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe is pure comfort food that never disappoints. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, filling the room with delicious aromas and happy conversations. So grab those simple ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a meal that will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
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
This Cheesy Penne Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty dinner recipe featuring tender penne pasta mixed with savory ground beef and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family meals or meal prep, this dish offers a deliciously easy way to enjoy a flavorful Italian-inspired baked pasta casserole.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
Cheese and Oils
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
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 ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Creating the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (with juices). Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combining Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the mixture and stir gently to combine.
- Baking the Cheesy Penne: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Optionally, sprinkle more mozzarella on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serving the Dish: Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot, paired with a side salad or garlic bread.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
