This Lasagna Pasta Bake combines tender penne noodles, savory ground beef, creamy tomato sauce, and a triple-cheese topping.

It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or meal prep.

If you love lasagna but want something quicker, THIS is the recipe.

Recipe Snapshot

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6–8

Ingredients

1 lb penne noodles

1 lb ground beef

1 cup chopped onions & bell peppers

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1 can Ragu pasta sauce

or 1 can tomato paste + 1 cup water (budget-friendly option)

1 can diced tomatoes

1 cup Parmesan cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese

1 cup cheddar cheese

Parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles

Boil penne noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned.

Add chopped onions and bell peppers and sauté until softened.

Season to taste with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning.

3. Make the Creamy Lasagna Sauce

To the skillet with the beef, add:

Heavy whipping cream

Ragu pasta sauce (or tomato paste + water)

Diced tomatoes

Parmesan cheese

Mozzarella cheese

Stir until creamy, cheesy, and well combined.

4. Assemble the Pasta Bake

Add the cooked penne noodles into the beef mixture and toss to coat.

Transfer everything into a baking dish.

Top with cheddar cheese (or extra mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend).

Sprinkle parsley on top.

5. Bake

Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

6. Serve Hot

Plate with extra parsley and enjoy a spoonful of cheesy, creamy, lasagna-inspired goodness.