Baked Penne Pasta with Beef and Mozzarella

Introduction:
Baked Penne Pasta with Beef and Mozzarella is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines perfectly cooked pasta with savory ground beef, a rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. This dish is baked to perfection, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, parties, or weeknight meals. The combination of tender pasta, juicy beef, and cheesy goodness creates a satisfying meal everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner gathering, this baked penne pasta will surely be a hit!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) penne pasta
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth or water
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Cook the Penne Pasta:
   In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Beef Sauce:
   In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
4. Make the Sauce:
   Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, and sugar (if using). Add the beef broth or water and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Assemble the Baked Penne:
   In the greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked penne pasta. Pour half of the beef sauce over the pasta and spread it evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce. Add the remaining penne pasta on top, followed by the remaining beef sauce. Top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
6. Bake:
   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve:
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
8. Enjoy:
   Serve hot, and enjoy the rich, cheesy, and savory flavors of this baked penne pasta with beef and mozzarella!

Nutritional Benefits:

• Penne Pasta: A good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy. Whole wheat penne can be used for added fiber and nutrients.
• Ground Beef: A rich source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, which are essential for muscle growth, energy production, and overall health.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Provides calcium, protein, and vitamin A, contributing to strong bones and overall health.
• Tomato Sauce: Rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to heart health and cancer prevention.
• Olive Oil: A healthy fat that contains monounsaturated fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Conclusion:

This Baked Penne Pasta with Beef and Mozzarella is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines the comfort of pasta with the richness of beef and cheese. It’s perfect for any family dinner, a weeknight meal, or a casual gathering with friends. The combination of tender penne, savory beef, flavorful tomato sauce, and melty mozzarella creates a balanced and fulfilling meal. Easy to prepare and bake, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Lovers of Pasta and Cheese:

If you love hearty, cheesy pasta dishes, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the rich, comforting taste of pasta and enjoy the combination of beef and cheese. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian flavors or simply looking for a satisfying, one-pan meal, this Baked Penne Pasta with Beef and Mozzarella is sure to please!

Method Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Variation: Use a combination of cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or ricotta for a different flavor profile.

This Baked Penne Pasta with Beef and Mozzarella is an all-time favorite for anyone who loves hearty pasta dishes. Simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, it’s a perfect addition to any meal.