Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking beef and onions
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef, onions, and garlic until beef is browned and onions are translucent.
4. Add marinara sauce, water, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese.
6. In the 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the cooked penne pasta on the bottom.
7. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the pasta.
8. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture over the beef mixture.
9. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta cheese mixture.
10. Repeat layers with remaining pasta, beef mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
11. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 514
Fat per serving: 25g
Carbohydrates per serving: 41g
Protein per serving: 32g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef.
- Any type of pasta can be used in place of penne.
- Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta cheese.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be used in place of mozzarella.
Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture.
- Use a different type of cheese such as cheddar or provolone.
- Add cooked Italian sausage to the beef mixture.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a large skillet to cook the beef and onions so they cook evenly.
- Let the baked penne cool for a few minutes before serving so the cheese sets.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Microwave leftovers for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the baked penne in individual bowls or on plates with a side salad and garlic bread.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Pairings:
Serve with a glass of red wine such as Chianti.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the pasta is too dry, add more marinara sauce or water to the beef mixture.
- If the cheese is not melted enough, broil for a few minutes until bubbly.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Baked penne is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the 20th century.
Flavor Profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and comforting.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a main dish for dinner.
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Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Creamy, Garlicky, Herby, Rich, Comforting