Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 12 oz penne or mostaccioli pasta
  • 24 oz marinara or pasta sauce
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Boil the pasta. Fill a large pot with salted water and cook the penne for 2 minutes less than the package directions. Stop when it's still slightly firm to the bite. Note: This prevents the pasta from overcooking in the oven.
  2. Heat the oil. Put 1 tbsp olive oil in your skillet over medium high heat. Once it shimmers, add the ground beef and diced onion.
  3. Brown the beef. Cook the beef and onion, stirring occasionally, until the beef is deeply browned and onions are translucent. Note: Don't crowd the pan too much or the meat will steam instead of searing.
  4. Add the garlic. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for exactly 1 minute until you can smell it filling the room.
  5. Simmer the sauce. Lower the heat to medium and stir in the marinara and beef broth. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce looks glossy and thick.
  6. Combine. Fold in the parboiled pasta, stirring gently until every noodle is thoroughly coated in sauce. Note: This is where the Easy Beef Pasta Bake gets its flavor.
  7. Transfer. Pour the mixture into your 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spoon.
  8. Top with cheese. Sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the top.
  9. Bake. Place in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown in spots.
  10. Final touch. Garnish with fresh parsley and let it rest for 5 minutes before scooping. Note: Resting lets the sauce set so it doesn't run all over the plate.