If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s bursting with flavor, you’ve got to try this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe. It’s a beautiful harmony of tender penne pasta, savory browned ground beef, and a rich, herb-kissed tomato sauce, all lovingly baked under a blanket of melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Every bite delivers that perfect cheesy satisfaction with a hint of freshness from optional basil garnishes, making it a fantastic go-to for weeknights, family gatherings, or even meal prep. Honestly, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm, delicious hug at the end of a busy day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe combines simple, everyday ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a dish layered with flavor, texture, and a touch of heartiness. Each component plays an essential role: from the al dente pasta holding every bit of sauce, to the savory ground beef delivering depth, and the cheeses adding that irresistible gooey finish.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: Choose a quality pasta that holds sauce well for the best texture.
- 1 pound ground beef: Use lean or regular – either way, it’s your main source of meaty richness here.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a mellow base flavor when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a wonderful aromatic depth that lifts the sauce.
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce: Provides the smooth and rich tomato backdrop for the dish.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds body and a fresh tomato bite with its juices.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the sauce that classic Italian flair.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a subtle kick to round out the taste.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistibly gooey, stringy cheese pull.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish with a little salty punch.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and a touch of richness in the pan.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional): Bright, fresh garnish that makes each serving pop visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt is crucial because it seasons the pasta internally and enhances the overall flavor. Toss in the penne and cook according to the package directions (usually 11 to 13 minutes) until it’s perfectly al dente – tender but still with a slight bite to hold up well in the sauce. Drain the pasta and if you want, drizzle it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Brown the Ground Beef
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it soften until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step unlocks the naturally sweet flavors in the onion. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, keeping it fragrant but not browned. Then add the ground beef, breaking it apart gently with your spatula. Cook the beef until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, which usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Create the Flavorful Tomato Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and the can of diced tomatoes with all their juices directly into the skillet with your beef. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all those flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook slowly for about 10 minutes. This simmering step thickens the sauce and lets all those herb and beef flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce, Add Cheese
Transfer your cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the simmering meat sauce. Toss everything gently until the pasta is fully coated in the luscious sauce. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the warm pasta mixture and fold them in. The heat from the sauce will start to melt the cheese, creating a rich, cheesy combination that’s hard to resist.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour your cheesy penne and ground beef mixture into it, spreading it out evenly. If you like, sprinkle a bit more mozzarella on top for an extra cheesy crust. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly, golden, and inviting. This baking step gives the dish that warm, comforting texture and flavor.
Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve
Once baked, let your Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This short pause helps the flavors to settle and the cheese to firm up slightly, making it easier (and more delightful) to serve. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if you have them to add a burst of vibrant color and subtle herbal brightness.
How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a classic choice to top off this cheesy pasta bake, adding a slight pepperiness and vibrant green color that really brings the dish to life. If you’re feeling adventurous, a light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an extra layer of sophistication and subtle heat.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes the perfect light counterpoint to the rich and cheesy pasta. Garlic bread or a warm crusty loaf can help scoop up every delicious bit of sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, add texture and freshness for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions of the Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe in small ramekins or oven-safe bowls. This way you get a personalized, bubbly cheesy crust on top for everyone. You could also layer it with sliced fresh tomatoes and extra basil before the final bake for a bright, pretty presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat portions in the microwave or oven to enjoy the same comforting flavors again. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain moisture and prevent the cheese from drying out.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again, about 15-20 minutes. If you’re short on time, the microwave works fine too—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts to avoid drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding onto the sauce and cheese, other sturdy pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or shells will work wonderfully too. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap out the ground beef for plant-based ground “beef,” cooked lentils, or sautéed mushrooms to maintain the hearty texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free penne pasta instead of regular pasta. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions for best results, as gluten-free pasta sometimes cooks more quickly.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, then combine and bake when ready to serve. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
What cheese works best in this recipe?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices for that creamy melt and sharp flavor. However, feel free to experiment with provolone or a little fontina for a slightly different cheesy character.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe is truly a star in any kitchen. It strikes the perfect balance of comfort and flavor without being complicated, making it an all-time favorite for sharing with loved ones. Once you try it, I’m confident it will become your go-to dish when you want something satisfying, cheesy, and full of heart. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to enjoy a fantastic dinner that everyone will ask you to make again!
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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 featuring tender penne pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it combines stovetop cooking and oven baking to deliver a flavorful, satisfying dish everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese & Oil
- 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 their 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 to blend the flavors.
- Combining Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss gently to coat it fully. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture and stir gently to combine everything evenly.
- Baking the Cheesy Penne: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Optionally, sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top for a cheesier crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serving the Dish: Let the baked penne sit for 5 minutes before serving to set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot, ideally with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
