Penne pasta with ricotta cheese and ground beef Recipe

Penne pasta with ricotta cheese and ground beef is a rich, savory dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. This hearty recipe pairs tender penne with creamy ricotta, seasoned ground beef, and a bold tomato-based sauce. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet satisfying enough to serve at a gathering. The best part? It’s budget-friendly and easy to customize to your liking.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

• Balanced layers of flavor – The ground beef adds depth, while ricotta brings creaminess, making each bite full of flavor.
• Simple, everyday ingredients – Uses pantry staples like pasta, tomato sauce, and beef, so you can prepare it without extra shopping.
• Great for meal prep – This pasta holds up well for leftovers and is easy to reheat, saving you time later in the week.
• Kid and family-approved – It’s mild, cheesy, and filling—perfect for all ages and picky eaters.
• Customizable with ease – You can add vegetables, switch up the meat, or even use spicy sausage for a kick.

What Is Penne Pasta with Ricotta Cheese and Ground Beef?

It’s a comforting pasta dish that combines penne pasta with a savory tomato and ground beef sauce, layered with creamy ricotta cheese. This one-pan dish delivers both heartiness and creaminess in a balanced, satisfying way.

Other Recipes

• Libby’s Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling
• Bang Bang Shrimp
• White Lily Mexican Cornbread

Penne Pasta with Ricotta and Ground Beef Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

For the Cheese Layer:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg (optional, helps bind the ricotta mixture)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Penne Pasta with Ricotta and Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside, drizzling with a little olive oil to keep from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed. Add tomato paste, marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer on low for 10–15 minutes for richer flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg (if using), half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking. In a large baking dish or oven-safe pan, spread a small amount of meat sauce on the bottom. Add half the penne pasta, then layer half the ricotta mixture and meat sauce. Repeat the layers with remaining ingredients. Top with remaining mozzarella and extra Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving for added color and freshness.

What to Serve with Penne Pasta with Ricotta and Ground Beef

• Garlic knots or crusty bread – Great for scooping up leftover sauce and adds a crunchy contrast.
• Mixed green salad – A fresh salad with vinaigrette brightens up the rich pasta.
• Steamed vegetables – Broccoli or green beans pair nicely and balance out the meal.
• Roasted asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a tender, earthy flavor.
• A glass of red wine – Complements the tomato and meat flavors beautifully for adults.

Expert Tips for Mastering Penne Pasta with Ricotta and Ground Beef

• Use lean ground beef – This reduces grease and keeps the dish balanced.
• Don’t skip the seasoning – Well-seasoned meat and sauce make all the difference.
• Add a touch of heat – A pinch of red pepper flakes adds subtle warmth.
• Use freshly grated cheese – It melts better and adds more flavor.
• Let it rest before serving – Resting helps the layers set and makes slicing cleaner.

Variations of Penne Pasta with Ricotta and Ground Beef

• Swap ground beef for turkey – A lighter option that still tastes great.
• Make it spicy – Use hot Italian sausage in place of ground beef.
• Add veggies – Try chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more nutrients.
• Try different pasta – Rigatoni or fusilli work well if you don’t have penne.
• Make it one-pot – Cook the pasta directly in the sauce with extra broth for a quicker cleanup.

How do you store Leftover Penne Pasta with ricotta and ground beef?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let the dish cool before refrigerating to prevent condensation and sogginess. If freezing, portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Penne Pasta with Ricotta and Ground Beef Leftovers?

• Oven method – Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave method – Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
• From frozen – Let thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in oven or microwave until hot and bubbly.

Nutritional Value (per serving)

Calories: 520
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 26g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Calcium: 220mg
Iron: 3mg

FAQs

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta in this pasta recipe?

Yes, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta in penne pasta recipes. It has a similar texture and a slightly tangier flavor. Blend it for a smoother consistency if preferred, and use it in the same quantity as ricotta.

Do I have to bake penne pasta with ricotta and ground beef?

Baking is recommended for a golden, bubbly cheese topping, but it’s optional. You can skip the oven and serve it straight from the stovetop. Just make sure the ricotta and mozzarella are fully melted and mixed well before serving.

Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. Assemble it fully, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Bake from the fridge or thawed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time as needed.

What pasta shapes can I use instead of penne?

You can use rigatoni, ziti, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni if you don’t have penne. Choose a shape that holds sauce well and has enough surface area to catch the creamy ricotta and beef mixture.

Final Words

Penne pasta with ricotta and ground beef is one of those dishes that feels like home. It’s filling, easy to prepare, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

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