If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a delightful blanket of melted cheese, you’re in for a treat with this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or impressing friends without breaking a sweat. Rich tomato flavors mingle with Italian seasoning, and the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses melt into gooey perfection, making every bite utterly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe plays a starring role, keeping things simple yet bursting with flavor. From the al dente penne pasta to the perfectly seasoned ground beef and the luscious cheeses on top, each component contributes to a wonderfully balanced dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: The tubular shape holds the sauce beautifully for maximum flavor in every bite.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds hearty protein and richness, creating a meaty base that tastes incredible.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth once sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, savory notes that brighten the sauce.
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce: Brings vibrant tomato flavor and smooth texture to the sauce.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds a chunky freshness and extra juiciness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the sauce that unmistakable Italian flair.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the dish perfectly savory.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and complexity.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, comforting cheese pull we all love.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Contributes a sharp, nutty finish that brightens the richness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and adding a silky mouthfeel.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal pop to finish the dish with flair.
How to Make Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, typically between 11 and 13 minutes, until tender but still firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta, and if you like, toss it with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté it until it’s translucent and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to really bring out its pungent aroma. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up with your spatula, and cook until it’s nicely browned, around 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed to keep the sauce from getting greasy.
Step 3: Make the Flavorful Tomato Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and the undrained diced tomatoes, stirring to combine everything thoroughly. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook on low for about 10 minutes. This slow simmer helps blend the flavors and thickens the sauce just right.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce with Cheese
Add the cooked penne directly into the skillet with the sauce and toss gently to coat each piece of pasta. Then sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything slowly to evenly distribute the cheese without breaking up the pasta, ensuring each bite will be cheesy and delicious.
Step 5: Bake to Cheesy Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, sprinkle a bit more mozzarella on top for that golden, bubbly crust. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is gloriously melted and starting to brown.
Step 6: Let It Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let your Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe rest for about 5 minutes. This waiting time allows everything to set, so it serves up neatly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if you have them on hand—they add a beautiful splash of color and a fresh herbal note that perfectly balances the richness.
How to Serve Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a wonderful finishing touch, lending a burst of fragrant herbal brightness. If you want an extra flavor pop, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also elevate the experience without overpowering the comforting cheesy notes.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread is another classic companion, perfect for scooping up any extra sauce and adding a crunchy, buttery contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, serve this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe straight from the baking dish for everyone to dig in family-style. For a more elegant presentation, spoon portions into individual ramekins and garnish each with a torn basil leaf and freshly cracked black pepper—simple touches that make serving feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your cheesy penne feast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This makes it an excellent choice for quick lunches or easy weeknight dinners where you want comfort food ready to go.
Freezing
If you want to save some for the longer haul, this dish freezes beautifully. Just transfer cooled portions into a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, portion your leftovers into a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1 to 2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, bake covered in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes to bring back that just-baked charm and melt the cheese once again.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta instead of penne?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce in its tubes, other pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or even rotini will work wonderfully and give a similar comforting texture.
Is ground beef the only meat option?
Not at all. You could substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even mix in some Italian sausage for a spicier kick. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Skip the ground beef and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant to keep the texture satisfying. You can also incorporate plant-based ground “beef” alternatives for a similar taste.
What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking?
Drizzling the drained pasta with a little olive oil and giving it a gentle toss keeps those pieces separate and helps the sauce cling without clumping.
Can I prepare this dish in advance and bake later?
Yes! Combine the cooked pasta, sauce, and cheeses as directed, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe is one of those soul-satisfying meals that feels like it came from a treasured family cookbook. It’s straightforward enough for weeknights but special enough to share with company. I promise, once you make it, it’ll quickly become a favorite go-to comfort dish—packed with big flavors and that all-important cheesy goodness we all crave.
Print
Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef is a comforting and hearty pasta bake featuring tender penne, savory browned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This easy dinner recipe is perfect for family meals and meal prepping, delivering satisfying flavors with a golden baked cheese crust.
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
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 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 cook according to package instructions for 11-13 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Optionally, drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cooking the Ground Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute while stirring frequently. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Creating the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juices into the skillet. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
- Combining Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture and gently stir to combine the cheese throughout.
- Baking the Cheesy Penne: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Optionally, sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serving the Dish: Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot, ideally paired 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 leftover portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
