Ground Beef and Penne Pasta Bake

01Method

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 425°F.

2. 2

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Cook the pasta until 1–2 minutes shy of the package instructions — it should still be quite firm. Drain into a colander.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, warm the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no pink remains, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.

4. 4

   Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet with the beef and stir to combine, cooking until heated through, 3–4 minutes. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat evenly.

5. 5

   Spread half the pasta mixture into a 13x9-inch baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of cottage cheese over the top, then scatter half the shredded cheese across the surface. Layer the remaining pasta on top and finish with the rest of the shredded cheese. Bake until bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly golden, about 30 minutes. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving.