Beef and Penne Casserole Recipe
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 6
Description:
Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Beef and Penne Casserole! Originally inspired by a classic recipe, we’ve elevated this dish with additional spices and a touch of personal flair. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a delightful addition to any potluck, this savory casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 8 oz lean ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 can (6 oz) Italian tomato paste
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1 tbsp instant beef bouillon
- 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
-
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Cook Beef and Onion: In a large saucepan, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink.
-
Prepare Sauce: Add water, garlic powder, Italian tomato paste, red wine, instant beef bouillon, and any additional seasonings you prefer. Stir well to combine. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the flavors meld together.
-
Layer Casserole: Spray a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Layer the ingredients as follows: half of the cooked penne pasta, half of the prepared sauce, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
-
Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauce, and cheese. Cover the baking dish with foil.
-
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
Season: Once baked, season with salt to taste.
-
Freezing Instructions (Optional):
- If preparing ahead to freeze, assemble the casserole as instructed but do not bake.
- Cover the dish tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To cook from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45-55 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
- Season with salt before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy this Beef and Penne Casserole hot from the oven, paired with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its hearty flavors and comforting appeal.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 514.6
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6.7g
- Cholesterol: 54.3mg
- Sodium: 726.2mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 73.7g
- Dietary Fiber: 11.1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 24.2g
Keywords:
Penne, Cheese, Beef, European, Potluck, Savory, Quick Meals, Oven, Beginner Cook, Freezer Friendly, Easy, Inexpensive
Enjoy Your Meal!
Discover the joy of homemade comfort with our Beef and Penne Casserole recipe. Perfectly balanced flavors and easy preparation make this dish a staple for any occasion. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed solo, every bite brings warmth and satisfaction. Happy cooking from Love With Recipes! 🍽️
