Get ready to indulge in a comforting and satisfying meal with this Ground Beef Penne Pasta Bake recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish is a hearty combination of savory ground beef, creamy Alfredo sauce, tangy spaghetti sauce, and tender penne pasta, all topped off with a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, this pasta bake is sure to become a go-to recipe in your household.
Ingredients:
- Meat:
- 1 lb Ground beef
- Condiments:
- 1 16 ounce jar Alfredo sauce
- 1 14 ounce jar Spaghetti sauce
- Pasta & Grains:
- 1 16 ounce box Penne pasta
- Dairy:
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, Alfredo sauce, spaghetti sauce, and cooked penne pasta. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, covering the entire surface.
- Bake in the Oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil, if desired, and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach into the pasta bake for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Parmesan, or provolone for a unique flavor profile.
- Make it Creamier: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream into the sauce mixture for added creaminess.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Substitute the penne pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative. Replace the Alfredo sauce with a homemade keto-friendly Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
- Low Carb Hack: Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork sausage for added flavor and richness. Skip the pasta altogether and serve the meat sauce over a bed of sautéed spinach or cauliflower rice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this pasta bake? A: Absolutely! Allow the pasta bake to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef? A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to suit your taste preferences.
In conclusion, this Ground Beef Penne Pasta Bake is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings for comfort food. With its simple preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s easy to see why this recipe is a favorite among families everywhere. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dinner option for guests, this pasta bake is sure to please. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a hearty and delicious meal that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!
