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- 1 lb ground beef - 8 oz penne pasta - 1 small onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1 teaspoon sugar - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil for garnish (optional) Gather these ingredients to make a tasty Ground Beef Penne Pasta Bake. The ground beef gives a nice flavor, while the penne pasta adds heartiness. Onions and garlic are keys to a great base. Crushed tomatoes and tomato paste provide depth, making the dish rich and savory. Cheese is the crown jewel here. The mozzarella melts into gooey goodness, and Parmesan adds a sharp bite. You can even sprinkle fresh basil on top for color and flavor. For the full recipe, check out the details to see the steps that will guide you through this comforting dish. - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - Cook the penne pasta until al dente. Follow the package instructions. Drain and set aside. - In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. - Add the diced onion and sauté until it turns clear. This takes about 3-4 minutes. - Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until it smells good. - Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula. - Cook the beef until it turns brown, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any extra fat if needed. - Mix in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Add Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. - Let this simmer for about 5 minutes. - Combine the cooked penne pasta with the meat sauce in the skillet. - Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese until everything is well mixed. - Next, transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. - Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. - Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The cheese should be golden and bubbly. - Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with fresh basil if you like. For the full recipe, check the details above. To avoid overcooking the pasta, cook it until just al dente. This keeps it firm. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process. For draining excess grease from beef, use a colander after browning. You can also tilt the skillet slightly. This lets the grease pour out easily. You can add extra spices for a flavorful kick. Try a dash of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. These add heat and depth. Cheese variations can also enhance the dish. Use sharp cheddar or creamy fontina for a richer taste. Mixing cheeses can create a unique flavor blend. Pair this bake with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. These sides balance the meal nicely. For garnishes, fresh basil adds color and aroma. A sprinkle of parsley or a drizzle of olive oil works well too. These details make your dish pop visually and tastefully. You can find the full recipe to make this delicious dish. {{image_2}} You can switch up the meat in this dish. Ground turkey or chicken works great. These meats are leaner and still packed with flavor. Use the same amount as the beef. For a vegetarian option, try plant-based protein. Cook it the same way you would ground beef. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty meal. You can add veggies for extra nutrition and color. Spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms work well. Just chop them up and mix them in with the sauce. You can also use different sauces to change the taste. Try a spicy marinara or a creamy Alfredo. These changes can make the dish feel new and exciting. If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free pasta. It tastes great and works just like regular pasta. For a low-carb option, skip the pasta altogether. Instead, use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Both options are healthy and still delicious. These adaptations help everyone enjoy this dish, no matter their diet. To store leftovers, let the dish cool down first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the food fresh and safe. You can store it in the fridge for up to four days. After this time, the taste may change. To freeze your Ground Beef Penne Pasta Bake, use a freezer-safe dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. This prevents freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. For the best flavor and texture, reheat in the oven. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake it for about 20 minutes or until hot. If you're in a hurry, the microwave also works. Heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. This helps heat evenly. How long does Ground Beef Penne Pasta Bake last in the fridge? This dish lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, just reheat it in the oven or microwave. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day before. Just assemble the dish and cover it tightly. When you're ready, bake it straight from the fridge. This saves time and keeps the flavor. How can I make a smaller portion? To make a smaller batch, cut the ingredients in half. Use ½ lb of ground beef and 4 oz of penne pasta. This will yield about 3 servings, perfect for a quick meal. Can I substitute ingredients if I don't have some on hand? Absolutely! You can swap ground beef for turkey or chicken. If you lack certain spices, use what you have. Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors. What to do if the pasta is too dry after baking? If the pasta is dry, add a splash of broth or water. Stir gently and bake for a few more minutes. This will help moisten it and bring back the creamy texture. How can I make my sauce thicker? To thicken the sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. You can also add a bit of tomato paste or cornstarch mixed with water. This will give your sauce a nice, thick consistency. This recipe uses simple ingredients like ground beef, penne pasta, and cheese. You learned how to prepare, cook, and combine these items into a delicious meal. There are tips to enhance flavors and adapt the dish to suit different diets. Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this dish later. With these steps, you can create an easy and tasty dinner. Don't hesitate to explore variations that fit your taste. Enjoy experimenting in your kitchen!

Ground Beef Penne Pasta Bake

Savor the deliciousness of this Cheesy Ground Beef Penne Bake, a perfect comfort food for any occasion! With layers of flavorful ground beef, al dente penne pasta, and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. It's easy to make and a great choice for family dinners. Click through to discover the step-by-step recipe and treat your loved ones to a hearty meal they'll crave again and again!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef

8 oz penne pasta

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

        Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

          Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

            Mix in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.

              Combine the cooked penne pasta with the meat sauce in the skillet. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese until well combined.

                Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.

                  Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.

                    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

                      Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

                        Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6