Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or your favorite blend); Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

This recipe features an irresistible combination of hearty ground beef, penne pasta, diced tomatoes, gooey cheese, and aromatic herbs in one easy-to-make dish. With just a few key ingredients and 40 minutes of your time, you’ll have a hearty, filling, and most importantly tasty meal on the table. So what are you waiting for? Let’s make dinnertime delicious!

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta and the beef mixture. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving.

Notes

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like sautéed spinach or bell peppers for extra goodness. For an extra kick of flavor, you can add red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. Letting the pasta bake cool slightly after removing it from the oven helps the flavors meld together. Pair this dish with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.