Ground Beef Casserole
When it’s time to indulge in a classic comfort food, the Ground Beef Penne Casserole is an unbeatable choice. This timeless dish brings together the rich flavors of succulent ground beef, tender penne pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating this beloved comfort food, complete with a table sheet format of ingredients and expert insights. Get ready to savor every bite of this warm and satisfying casserole.
Ground Beef Penne Casserole Recipe Ingredients
| INGREDIENTS | QUANTITY |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Penne pasta | 12 oz |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped |
| Garlic cloves | 3, minced |
| Crushed tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup |
| Italian seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh basil leaves | For garnish |
Instructions:
Let’s dive into the process of creating a comforting Ground Beef Penne Casserole:
- Cooking the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Aromatic Base: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Tomato Magic: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to develop the flavors.
- Cooking the Penne: In a separate pot, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Creamy Layer: In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. This creamy mixture will add a luxurious touch to the casserole.
- Layering the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked penne pasta, followed by half of the beef and tomato mixture. Spread the creamy cheese mixture over the beef layer.
- Repeat and Top: Create another layer with the remaining penne pasta, beef and tomato mixture, and creamy cheese mixture. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Baking the Casserole: Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnishing: Once baked, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and added freshness.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this casserole.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Certainly! While penne works wonderfully, you can use other pasta shapes like rigatoni or ziti.
- Can I add vegetables to the casserole? Absolutely, you can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Can I freeze leftover casserole? Yes, portion out leftovers and freeze them for future meals. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I use other types of cheese? Certainly! You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or fontina for unique flavor profiles.
The Ground Beef Penne Casserole recipe is a comforting masterpiece that captures the essence of home-cooked goodness. With our step-by-step guide and table sheet format of ingredients, you’re now equipped to create this satisfying and flavorful dish in your own kitchen. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet meal, this casserole is bound to bring joy to your taste buds and warmth to your heart. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor a meal that embodies the spirit of comfort and deliciousness.
