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Healthy Penne Pasta Bake Recipe

A comforting penne pasta bake made with ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese—perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic until fully cooked.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Simmer the sauce uncovered for 10 minutes.
  6. Add cooked penne pasta to the sauce and mix well.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  8. Top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid a mushy texture after baking. Let the bake rest briefly for cleaner servings.