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Baked Penne with Ground Beef

Baked Penne with Ground Beef
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Baked Penne with Ground Beef is a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal that combines tender penne pasta, savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this hearty casserole delivers layered flavors and irresistible textures with each bite. Simple, family-friendly, and customizable, it’s an ideal classic baked pasta dish to satisfy all appetites.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz dried penne pasta

Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 24 oz marinara sauce (jarred or homemade)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheese

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Penne: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
  2. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat, then stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 8–10 minutes to blend flavors.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked penne with the meat sauce until well coated. Mix in ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for added creaminess and stir gently.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the dish, then sprinkle with ½ cup mozzarella and ¼ cup parmesan cheese. Top with the remaining pasta, followed by the remaining mozzarella and parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the baked penne rest for about 5 minutes after baking to set the dish, allowing flavors to meld and making it easier to serve.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta; cook just shy of al dente to prevent mushiness during baking.
  • Drain excess grease from the cooked ground beef to avoid an oily casserole.
  • Layer cheese within and on top for even melting and enhanced flavor.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best vibrant flavor instead of garlic powder.
  • Allow the dish to rest after baking for cleaner slices and better texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked penne, ground beef pasta, comfort food, baked pasta, easy dinner, family meal, Italian casserole

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/baked-penne-with-ground-beef/