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Tomato Basil Beef Penne Casserole

This Tomato Basil Beef Penne Casserole is warm, cheesy, and full of rich tomato flavor. Tender pasta and juicy beef bake together under a golden layer of melted cheese. It is simple, cozy, and perfect for busy family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole, Dinner
Cuisine: Italian American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 ounces penne pasta
Beef and Sauce
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 can diced tomatoes drained
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
Cheese and Herbs
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil chopped

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • 9x13 baking dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. Cook the penne pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Add ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed.
  5. Stir in marinara sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. Add cooked penne to the skillet and mix well to coat. Stir in half of the chopped fresh basil.
  7. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until cheese is melted and lightly golden. Let rest for 5 minutes, then top with remaining basil before serving.

Notes

Keep pasta slightly firm before baking to prevent it from becoming too soft. Drain diced tomatoes well and use lean ground beef for best texture. You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.