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Baked Penne with Beef and Cheese

A comforting baked pasta dish combining the robust flavors of ground beef, tangy crushed tomatoes, and gooey cheese, perfect for cozy evenings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Meat
  • 12 oz penne pasta Perfectly tubular, ready to soak up flavors.
  • 1 lb ground beef Tender and juicy, forming the hearty foundation.
  • 1 onion, chopped Aromatic and sweet.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fragrant and robust.
Sauce
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes Rich and tangy.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil Sweet and slightly peppery.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste Essential seasoning.
Cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Creamy and gooey.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Sharp and salty.
Garnish
  • Fresh basil For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula.
  4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
  5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, beef mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
  8. Top with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan over the top.
Baking
  1. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Let sit for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil.

Notes

For best results, cook pasta al dente, use fresh ingredients, and let the dish rest before serving.