Ingredients

1 bulb of garlic
8 ounces penne , dried
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons fennel seeds
7 ounces green bell peppers , small dice
5 ounces yellow onions , small dice
4 ounces carrots , shredded
2 tablespoons basil , dried
1 lb lean hamburger
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
15 ounces tomatoes , rough chop
15 ounces crushed tomatoes ( canned )
4 ounces parmesan cheese , freshly grated
salt & freshly ground black pepper
Penne rustica is a popular Italian-American dish that is known for its bold flavors and hearty texture. It is a savory pasta dish that is made with ground beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce. The dish is typically flavored with garlic, red pepper flakes, and fennel seeds, which gives it a unique flavor that is hard to resist. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a delicious dish to serve at your next dinner party, penne rustica is sure to please.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2.Slice off the top of the garlic bulb and drizzle with olive oil. Wrap in foil and bake for 45 minutes.
3.Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4.In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add red pepper flakes, fennel seeds, green bell peppers, yellow onions, and shredded carrots. Saute until the vegetables are tender.
5.Add dried basil and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned, stirring occasionally.
6.Add salt, black pepper and both chopped and crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
7.Add the cooked penne to the skillet and mix well.
8.Transfer the penne mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
9.Bake the penne rustica for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.

PROS

Penne rustica is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter evening.
Made with ground beef, vegetables, and a tangy tomato sauce, it is a complete meal in itself.
The combination of fennel seeds, red pepper flakes, and garlic give it a unique flavor that is hard to resist.

CONS

This dish is not suitable for vegetarians as it contains meat.
It is also high in calories and carbs, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
The fennel seeds can also cause allergic reactions in some people.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Penne rustica is rich in protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full for longer. The tomatoes used in the dish are also a good source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce the risk of cancer. The garlic used to flavor the dish has antibacterial properties and can help boost your immune system.

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