Baked Penne with Ground Beef
Baked penne with ground beef is a comforting classic that never fails to impress. With layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that brings family and friends together. I’ve made this dish numerous times, each experience not only filling my kitchen with fantastic aromas but also creating delightful memories around the dinner table.
Why Make This Recipe
- Hearty Flavor: Baked penne with ground beef is packed with savory flavors, making it a beloved comfort food for all ages.
- Nutritious: This dish features protein from ground beef and hidden veggies in the sauce, providing a balanced meal.
- Convenient and Make-Ahead: Prep it in advance, pop it in the oven when ready, and enjoy a warm dinner with little fuss.
- Versatile: Great for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a dish that impresses without requiring a culinary degree.
- Personal Insight: I love this recipe because it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser, perfect for casual get-togethers or cozy family nights.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cooking Method: Baked
This recipe involves cooking pasta and simmering a flavorful beef sauce before layering everything with cheese and baking it to bubbly perfection.
My Experience Making This Recipe
When I first made baked penne with ground beef, I underestimated just how cheesy and satisfying it could be. There was a moment when I nearly burnt the sauce, but I quickly salvaged it with some added tomatoes and herbs, turning potential disaster into deliciousness. Each iteration since has only confirmed how forgiving and adaptable this dish is.
How to Make Baked Penne with Ground Beef
Start by boiling your penne pasta until al dente, about 8 minutes; remember, it will continue cooking in the oven. While the pasta cooks, sauté onions and garlic in a skillet, then add the ground beef, browning it until fully cooked. Add tomato sauce, herbs, and spices for a robust sauce. Layer the cooked pasta with the meat sauce and shredded cheese in a baking dish, then bake until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Expert Tips for Success
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Undercook the pasta slightly to prevent it from becoming mushy after baking.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano for a fresher flavor compared to dried.
- Cheese Selection: Combine different cheeses for depth; mozzarella for melting, and parmesan for richness.
- Baking Dish: Opt for a glass or ceramic dish for even heat distribution, ensuring that the pasta cooks evenly.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish cool for about 10 minutes after baking, allowing it to set and making it easier to serve.
How to Serve Baked Penne with Ground Beef
Serve your baked penne with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar for a refreshing complement to the rich dish. You can also pair it with garlic bread for a carb-lovers’ delight. For presentation, sprinkle fresh parsley on top right before serving to add color and vitality.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze, place individual portions in freezer-safe bags and they can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply defrost in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes, or microwave in increments until warm.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or chopped mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian option.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the ground beef for some heat.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate spinach or bell peppers into the sauce to sneak in more vegetables.
Nutritional Highlights
Baked penne provides a good amount of protein from the ground beef and can be a great source of fiber, especially with added veggies. It’s a filling dish that can be part of a balanced diet, but watch portions as it can be calorie-dense. Contains gluten and dairy; modify as needed for dietary considerations.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Dry Pasta: If the pasta feels dry after baking, try adding a little bit of broth before baking or cover the dish with foil during the first phase of baking to retain moisture.
- Burnt Cheese: If your cheese is browning too quickly, cover the dish with foil until the pasta and sauce are heated through to prevent burning.
- Sauce Too Runny: If your sauce becomes too watery, let it simmer longer on the stove to reduce excess moisture before layering.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make baked penne ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use other kinds of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage make delightful alternatives if you want a different flavor profile.
3. How can I adapt for a larger group?
Simply double the recipe and bake in a larger dish. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
4. What if I don’t like ricotta cheese?
If ricotta isn’t your favorite, you can skip it altogether or substitute with cottage cheese or extra mozzarella for a creamier texture.
Baked Penne with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting classic dish with layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese that brings family and friends together.
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add ground beef and cook until fully browned.
- Stir in tomato sauce, herbs, and spices. Let simmer for a few minutes.
- In a baking dish, layer the cooked pasta, meat sauce, and shredded cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Letting the dish cool before serving helps it set for easier portioning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg