### Cheesy Penne Pasta Bake

This Cheesy Penne Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender penne pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!

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#### 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)

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#### Instructions:

1. **Preparing the Pasta:**
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
– Add the penne pasta and stir occasionally. Cook according to package instructions (11-13 minutes) until al dente.
– Drain the pasta and set aside. Optionally, drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. **Cooking the Ground Beef:**
– In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
– Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
– Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. **Creating the Sauce:**
– Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (with juices).
– Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
– Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. **Combining Pasta and Sauce:**
– Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce.
– Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the mixture and stir gently to combine.

5. **Baking the Cheesy Penne:**
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
– Optionally, sprinkle more mozzarella on top.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

6. **Serving the Dish:**
– Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving.
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
– Serve hot, paired with a side salad or garlic bread.

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#### Notes:
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.

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**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 40 minutes
**Total Time:** 55 minutes
**Yield:** 6 servings

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Penne Pasta Bake!