A delicious and hearty baked pasta dish with a savory meat sauce and gooey cheese, perfect for family dinners.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the dish inside for even cooking.
Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
In a large saucepan, sauté the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat.
Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into small pieces for even cooking.
Stir in the tomato paste, red wine, milk, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, half of the meat sauce, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
Press down gently on each layer to ensure even distribution.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
For a golden crust, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Serve the baked penne hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
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