Description
This comforting and cheesy penne bake is the perfect way to upgrade your pasta night. Featuring buttery garlic ground beef, tender penne pasta, and melty mozzarella cheese, it’s baked to golden perfection. Ideal for weeknights or hearty gatherings, it’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Ingredients
Scale
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb lean ground beef
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
2 cups tomato sauce or marinara
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned.
- Pour in tomato sauce and stir in heavy cream (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix cooked pasta into the skillet until evenly coated.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.