Description
Baked Penne with Meat Sauce and Mozzarella
A Cheesy, Meaty Pasta Dish for Ultimate Comfort!
This baked penne combines tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese into a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
300g penne pasta
Salt for boiling water
For the Meat Sauce:
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Meat Sauce:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned.
Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Assemble the Dish:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, mixing well.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake the Pasta:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tip: Add a pinch of red chili flakes for a spicy kick or substitute ground beef with Italian sausage for extra flavor!
Savor this Baked Penne with Meat Sauce and Mozzarella—a cheesy, comforting dish everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect baked penne. First, ensure your oven rack is in the center position and preheat to 375°F (190°C). For the pasta, heavily salt the boiling water—it should taste like the sea—and stir the penne immediately after adding to prevent sticking. For the sauce, break the ground beef into small crumbles as it browns. After adding the crushed tomatoes, use a splash of water to rinse the can and add it to the skillet for every last bit of flavor. When combining pasta and sauce, do it in the baking dish to save on cleanup. Layer half the pasta mixture, sprinkle with a handful of mozzarella, add the rest of the pasta, then top with the remaining cheeses for an extra cheesy interior.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is essential for scooping up any leftover sauce. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, start with a light appetizer like bruschetta or a caprese salad.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook penne until al dente. Brown ground beef, then cook onions and garlic. Add crushed tomatoes and seasonings, then simmer. Combine pasta and sauce in a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this baked penne ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave. For larger amounts, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to restore the creamy texture.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Rigatoni, ziti, or shells are excellent substitutes as their shapes also hold sauce well. Avoid long, thin pasta like spaghetti.
How can I make the sauce richer?
Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a splash of red wine with the crushed tomatoes. Adding a tablespoon of tomato paste will also deepen the flavor.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Absolutely. Assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. The texture of the pasta may soften slightly but will still be delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Boil only until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents: These can prevent smooth melting. Shredding block cheese yourself yields a superior, gooier result.
- Skimping on sauce: Ensure the pasta is fully coated to prevent a dry final bake.
- Not letting the sauce simmer: The 10-minute simmer is crucial for flavor development; don’t rush it.
Conclusion
This Baked Penne with Meat Sauce and Mozzarella is the epitome of comfort food, reliably delivering satisfaction with its hearty layers of flavor and cheese. Its versatility for make-ahead meals and simple ingredient list makes it a cornerstone recipe for any home cook. Mastering this dish provides a foundational skill for countless pasta bake variations. Gather your ingredients and enjoy the process of creating a meal that is sure to become a family favorite.