Marinara Ground Beef Penne Bake

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 24-oz can marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. 3 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
4. 4 Add ground beef to skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat if necessary.
5. 5 Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. 6 Combine cooked penne and beef sauce in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. 7 Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. 8 Bake for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and edges are slightly browned.
9. 9 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Oven

Variations

• Add cooked ground turkey or Italian sausage for a meatier version.
• Include a layer of ricotta cheese for added creaminess.

Substitutions

• Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Use gluten-free penne for a gluten-free version.

Pairings

• Garlic bread
• Steamed broccoli
• Caesar salad

Nutrition

Tips

• For a heartier dish, add sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers with the onions and garlic.
• Make ahead by assembling the dish and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad and garlic bread.
• Pair with a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner.

FAQ