Cheesy Beef Penne Bake

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 when I needed a reliable meal for a weeknight family gathering and it instantly became a favorite for its rich flavor and simple prep.

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 or 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 (optional): ½ tsp
• Salt and black pepper: to taste
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: 200 g (2 cups)
• Grated Parmesan cheese: 50 g (½ cup)
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp

Instructions

Preheat and prepare baking 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.

Cook onion and garlic:

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 and sauce:

Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat all the pasta in the sauce and beef mixture.

Layer in baking dish:

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 and serve:

Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.

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Pin Recipe

This easy casserole is always a hit on busy weeknights and brings everyone to the table with smiles and hearty appetites.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bake with a simple green salad and slices of crusty bread for a complete comforting meal.

Allergen Information

This recipe contains wheat (gluten) and milk (dairy). Double-check all packaged ingredients if nut allergies are a concern.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly.

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Try this family-favorite bake for your next dinner—it's simple to prepare and sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best for this bake?

Penne pasta holds sauce well and maintains its shape during baking, making it ideal for this dish.

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives without compromising flavor.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking in the oven?

Cooking the pasta slightly less than package instructions ensures it finishes perfectly when baked.

→ What cheeses are recommended for the topping?

A mix of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan provides a rich, golden, and bubbling crust.

→ Are there ways to add more vegetables to the bake?

Sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or spinach can be stirred in for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ How can I add fresh herbs for a flavor boost?

Adding a handful of fresh basil or parsley just before serving brightens the dish with fresh notes.