Elevate your weeknight dinner with our scrumptious Baked Penne Pasta with Beef and Ricotta. This hearty and flavorful dish combines the rich essence of beef mince with the creaminess of ricotta, all brought together in a harmonious blend of Italian-inspired herbs and cheeses. The magic happens in a single pot, as the penne pasta simmers to al dente perfection in a luscious tomato-based sauce, creating a symphony of tastes and textures that will surely delight your taste buds. Topped with a golden layer of shredded cheese and fresh basil leaves, this baked penne pasta masterpiece is a true testament to the art of comfort food with a nutritional twist.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 500g beef mince
- 700g passata
- 1-2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs
- 3 cups beef stock
- 1 packet high-fibre penne pasta
- 200g fresh ricotta
- 1 cup shredded cheese mix (cheddar, mozzarella, etc.)
- Fresh basil leaves, to serve
PREPARATIONS:
- Heat olive oil in a wide casserole or fry pan over medium heat.
- Sauté diced onion and crushed garlic until softened. Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.
- Add beef mince and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Once browned, drain off any excess fat.
- Pour in passata, beef stock, and dried Italian herbs. Bring the mixture to a boil. Add penne pasta and stir it into the sauce.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the casserole, and cook for approximately 20 minutes, or until the pasta reaches al dente consistency. Stir occasionally and add ½ cup of water if the mixture becomes dry.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks, ensuring it doesn’t overcook or stick together.
TIPS:
- Opt for a high-fiber penne pasta option to enhance the nutritional value of the dish.
- Customize the shredded cheese blend based on your preferences, combining cheddar, mozzarella, or other favorite melting cheeses.
YIELD:
- This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
In the world of comforting Italian-inspired cuisine, our Baked Penne Pasta with Beef and Ricotta stands as a testament to the delight of wholesome flavors and convenience. The interplay of savory beef mince, velvety ricotta, and robust Italian herbs, all enveloped in a rich tomato passata, brings a sense of heartwarming indulgence to your table. As the penne pasta cooks to al dente perfection, every bite is a reminder of the joy that comfort food can bring. Topped with a golden and gooey layer of shredded cheese and a flourish of fresh basil, this baked pasta creation is a celebration of culinary creativity and mindful eating. Gather your loved ones and savor the satisfaction of a nourishing meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
