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Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 59 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/cheesy-penne-with-ground-beef-recipe/