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. The combination of tender penne pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, gooey cheese sauce creates a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible.

This dish has roots in Italian-American cuisine, where pasta and cheese are celebrated for their ability to bring people together. It’s no wonder that Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef has become a favorite among families; the creamy texture and robust taste make it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to whip up on a busy weeknight, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. Join me as we dive into this deliciously cheesy adventure!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces 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 teaspoon 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. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta. 2. Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 11-13 minutes, until it’s al dente. I like to taste it a minute or two before the time is up to ensure it’s just right. 4. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. You can drizzle a little olive oil over it to keep it from sticking together.

Cooking the Ground Beef

5. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. I love using a non-stick skillet for this recipe to make cleanup easier. 6. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. The aroma of the onions cooking is just delightful! 7. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning. 8. Now, it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.

Creating the Sauce

9. Once the beef is cooked, stir in the can of tomato sauce and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices). This adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish. 10. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. 11. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

12. After the sauce has simmered, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce until it’s evenly coated. I find that using tongs works best for this step. 13. Now, it’s time to add the cheeses! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the pasta and sauce mixture. Stir gently to combine, allowing the cheese to melt into the dish.

Baking the Cheesy Penne

14. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, transfer the cheesy penne mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. I like to use a spatula to spread it out evenly. 15. For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle a little more mozzarella cheese on top if you like. It’s always nice to have that gooey, melted cheese on the surface! 16. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The smell wafting through the kitchen will be irresistible!

Serving the Dish

17. Once baked, remove the cheesy penne from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set a little and makes it easier to serve. 18. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. It adds a lovely freshness to the dish. 19. Serve the cheesy penne hot, and enjoy it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. I love to pair it with a nice glass of red wine!

Storage and Reheating

20. If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 21. To reheat, simply place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-

Conclusion:

In conclusion, 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. 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. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Cheesy Penne with Ground Beef a try and make it your own. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Cooking is all about sharing and enjoying, so let’s spread the love for this delightful dish together!

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