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Close-up of a creamy baked penne dish on a light wood board, showcasing its cheesy texture.

Easy Cheesy Baked Penne

A comforting baked pasta dish layered with rich meat sauce and cheesy goodness, perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 850
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Meat
  • 1 lb Penne Pasta
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef
  • 1 large Yellow Onion finely chopped
  • 4 cloves Garlic minced
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce
  • 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes undrained can
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional
  • 1 teaspoon Salt plus more for pasta water
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper freshly ground
  • 15 oz Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese
  • 4 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese divided
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped, for garnish
Other
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta until al dente, drain and set aside.
  2. Cook onions in olive oil until translucent, add garlic and beef, cook until browned. Add marinara, tomatoes, seasonings, simmer 15-20 mins.
  3. Mix cooked pasta with meat sauce. In a bowl, combine ricotta, 2 cups mozzarella, and Parmesan.
  4. Layer half of pasta mixture in a greased baking dish, dollop with cheese mixture, then top with remaining pasta. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
  5. Bake uncovered for 25-30 mins until bubbly and golden. Rest 10-15 mins, garnish with parsley, serve with extra Parmesan.

Notes

Ensure pasta is slightly undercooked to prevent mushiness after baking.