Pasta Bake With Broccoli
There’s something incredibly comforting about a pasta bake – the bubbling, cheesy goodness, and the hearty flavors that fill your home with warmth. In this recipe, we’re combining the classic appeal of a pasta bake with the added goodness of broccoli, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this Pasta Bake with Broccoli is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until just al dente. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain the pasta and broccoli and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the meat sauce in the skillet, tossing everything together until well mixed.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let the pasta bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
This Pasta Bake with Broccoli is a versatile dish that you can customize to suit your preferences. Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or sausage. You can also make it vegetarian by using meat alternatives or simply doubling up on the veggies. The cheesy goodness and comforting flavors of this pasta bake are sure to make it a hit at your next family gathering or cozy night in. Enjoy!
