Beef and Penne Casserole

Little Bee's Note:

I got this recipe from another recipe site and although the base recipe was delicious I altered it according to my taste and added a few more spices. This is a great family meal that can be prepared in advance and frozen for a busy weeknight. It would also be a great dish to take to a potluck.

• Total Time: 40 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 6

• 1 lb dried penne pasta , cooked and drained
• 8 ounces lean ground beef
• 1 small onion , chopped
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• 2 (6 ounce) cans italian tomato paste
• 1⁄3; cup red wine
• 1 tablespoon instant beef bouillon
• salt and pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese , cheese.

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350° F.
2. Cook beef and onion in large saucepan, stirring occasionally, until beef is no longer pink.
3. Add water, tomato paste, wine, bouillon, and seasonings.
4. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes or until flavors are blended.
5. Layer ingredients as follows in 13 x 9-inch baking dish sprayed with non stick cooking spray: 1/2 pasta, 1/2 sauce and 1/2 cheese.
6. Repeat layers; cover.
7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted.
8. Season with salt.
9. FOR FREEZE AHEAD: PREPARE as above; do not bake.
10. Cover; freeze for up to 2 months.
11. Thaw overnight in refrigerator.
12. Preheat oven to 350° F.
13. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted.
14. Season with salt.

Reviews

[Dreamgoddess]

Looking at the ingredients list, I thought this would be a terific recipe...however, we just didn't care for it. I think it needs additional spices to kick it up a bit. Sorry I couldn't give it a higer rating.