Description
This hearty Ground Beef Alfredo Bake combines tender penne pasta with savory browned ground beef and a creamy Alfredo sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. It’s a comforting, oven-baked dish perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
Meat & Seasoning
- 16 ounces lean ground beef
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce & Cheese
- 1 (15 oz) jar Alfredo sauce
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven rack in the top third to ensure even baking and browning of the cheese topping.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a salted pot of water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook for one minute less than the package instructions indicate, aiming for al dente texture. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef: While pasta cooks, heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add seasoning and aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.
- Combine with Alfredo sauce and cheese: Reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the Alfredo sauce and add half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir well to combine and heat through.
- Mix pasta into the skillet: Add the drained penne to the skillet while hot. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the pasta with sauce and beef mixture. Spread evenly in the skillet.
- Bake: Sprinkle the top evenly with the grated parmesan and remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake uncovered for 10 minutes until the dish is hot and bubbly.
- Broil for finishing: Optional – broil for 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese crust. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- Use a lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to reduce excess fat and grease.
- To make this dish gluten free, substitute penne pasta with your preferred gluten-free pasta.
- The baking step is crucial to melt the cheese topping and bring the dish together.
- Let the dish rest a few minutes before serving for easier slicing and serving.
