Baked Penne Rigate with Beef Cheese and Tomato Sauce

Introduction

This Baked Penne Rigate with Beef,  Cheese, and  Tomato Sauce is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With layers of tender pasta, hearty beef, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is easy to prepare and loved by all ages. It’s a one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) penne rigate
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• 3 cups tomato sauce (or marinara sauce)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional, for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation Tips

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Undercook the penne slightly to ensure it doesn’t become mushy when baked.
2. Customize the Cheese: Swap mozzarella for cheddar or provolone for a different flavor.
3. Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish a few hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the penne rigate until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the oregano, basil, red chili flakes (if using), tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. In the greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked penne.
2. Spread half of the meat sauce over the pasta, followed by dollops of ricotta or cottage cheese (if using).
3. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
4. Repeat with the remaining penne, meat sauce, and cheeses, ending with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

Step 6: Serve

1. Let the baked penne rigate rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Description

This Baked Penne Rigate with Beef, Cheese, and Tomato Sauce is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender pasta, savory beef, and a cheesy topping. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a satisfying and comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to please.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, ziti, rigatoni, or even fusilli work great in this recipe.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the ground beef and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a vegetarian version.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

5. Can I add more layers?
Of course! Add layers of cooked spinach, mushrooms, or even extra cheese for added richness.

Recommendations

1. Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve alongside crispy garlic bread for a complete meal.
2. Add a Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
3. Make It Spicy: Add extra chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicier version.

Conclusion

This Baked Penne Rigate with Beef,  Cheese, and  Tomato Sauce is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether for a family dinner or a potluck, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails. Enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!