Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner

Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but reminisce about family gatherings where this hearty meal was a staple. Originating from Italian-American cuisine, this dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the creamy goodness of cheese, creating a symphony of taste that resonates with many. People love Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef not only for its deliciously cheesy texture but also for its convenience; it’s a one-pot wonder that can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil Water**: Start by filling a large pot with water and adding a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. This will help season the pasta as it cooks. 2. **Cook the Penne**: Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 11-13 minutes, until al dente. 3. **Drain and Set Aside**: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside. You can drizzle a little olive oil over it to prevent sticking while you prepare the sauce.

Preparing the Beef Sauce

4. **Sauté the Aromatics**: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. 5. **Brown the Ground Beef**: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary. 6. **Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning**: Once the beef is browned, stir in the can of tomato sauce and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices). Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

7. **Mix the Pasta with the Sauce**: After the sauce has simmered, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce until it is well coated. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen it up. 8. **Add the Cheeses**: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and sauce mixture. Stir gently to combine, allowing the cheese to melt into the dish.

Baking the Cheesy Penne

9. **Preheat the Oven**: While you’re mixing in the cheese, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cheesy penne is baked to perfection. 10. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray. Pour the cheesy penne mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. 11. **Top with Extra Cheese**: For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle a little more mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta. 12. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serving the Cheesy Penne

13. **Garnish**: Once the cheesy penne is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. If you like, you can garnish it with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. 14. **Serve**: Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy your delicious cheesy penne with ground beef! This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread.

Storage and Reheating Tips

15. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers, let the cheesy penne cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. 16. **Reheating**: To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to whip up a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love. The combination of creamy cheese, hearty ground beef, and perfectly cooked penne creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a fresh garden salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, or even swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option. I encourage you to give this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef a try and make it your own! Once you’ve tasted the creamy goodness, I would love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation! Cooking is all about sharing and enjoying, so let’s spread the love for this delightful dish together. Happy cooking! Print