If you’re searching for the perfect comfort food, this Creamy Baked Penne with Beef and Cheese will steal the spotlight at your dinner table. This hearty, cheesy pasta bake combines tender penne rigate, a rich tomato-beef sauce, and a velvety cheese layer, creating an indulgent Italian-inspired dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy meal on a chilly evening. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- For the sauce:
- 40 g butter
- 1 bunch of spring onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 500 ml milk
- For the pasta bake:
- 300 g penne rigate pasta
- 600 g minced beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 300 g canned chopped tomatoes (in their juice)
- 150 g hard Parmesan cheese, grated
- 150 g hard mozzarella cheese, grated
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a generous pinch of salt and cook the penne rigate according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Make the White Sauce (Béchamel)
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped spring onions and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced beef, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes, along with their juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, ensuring each piece of penne is coated evenly.
- Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Pour a layer of the white sauce over the pasta, followed by a sprinkle of the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, spreading it evenly. Finish with the remaining white sauce and top with grated mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling.
6. Serve
- Allow the baked penne to cool slightly for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to scoop.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot alongside a green salad or garlic bread.
This Creamy Baked Penne with Beef and Cheese is a timeless dish that combines the best of both creamy and savory worlds. The rich flavors of the tomato-beef sauce balance perfectly with the smooth, cheesy béchamel and gooey mozzarella topping. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or indulging in a quiet evening meal, this recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your household. It’s proof that simple ingredients and a little effort can create something truly extraordinary.
Enjoy the compliments that will pour in with each delicious bite!