Beef Penne Pasta Casserole
A hearty beef penne pasta casserole with rich tomato flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to prepare with pantry staples.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cook beef and chopped onion in a large saucepan, stirring occasionally, until beef is no longer pink.
- Add water, Italian tomato paste, additional water, and beef bouillon to the saucepan.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes or until flavors are well blended.
- Combine the cooked beef mixture with cooked and drained penne pasta.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake until heated through, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian herbs like oregano and basil to the beef mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also replace the red wine with additional water or broth if desired. Remember to stir the mixture occasionally while cooking to ensure even blending of flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef Penne Pasta Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You could also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for added nutrition. For a heartier dish, try it alongside other Italian recipes like Quick-Baked Pasta Family Style or Skillet Beef Italiano.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating, adding a splash of water to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Penne Pasta Casserole contains roughly 464 calories, with 23g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of Italian tomato paste?
If you don't have Italian tomato paste on hand, you can use regular tomato paste mixed with Italian seasoning, or substitute with crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture. Just make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly to avoid a watery casserole.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).