When you’re craving a comforting and satisfying meal, this Hearty and Cheesy Beef Penne Bake is the answer. Packed with flavorful ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a meal to enjoy throughout the week, this delicious bake is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a delightful dish that brings joy to your table.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces Penne pasta
- 2 pounds Grass-fed ground beef (90% lean)
- 2 large free-range eggs, beaten
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 2 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, grated and divided
- 15 ounces Ricotta cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions:
- In a saucepan over high heat, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the pasta and simmer for 12 minutes until al dente.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add oil and cook the beef for 10 minutes until no longer pink. Stir in the sauce and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine Ricotta cheese and beaten eggs with mozzarella and Parmesan. Drain the pasta and add it to the mixing bowl, stirring to combine.
- Grease a 13×9-inch baking tin and layer with the meat mixture. Top with half of the pasta mixture and repeat the layers. Cover with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 20 minutes until the cheese turns brown and starts to bubble.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
Nutritional information is provided as approximations and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Cooking Tips:
- Experiment with different types of cheese for added flavor.
- Customize the marinara sauce with your favorite herbs and spices.
- Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.