Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

Grease a baking dish lightly with butter.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Add chopped spring onions and sauté until soft.

Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.

Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until thickened.

Mix in half the Parmesan cheese, season with salt and black pepper, then set aside.

3. Cook the Pasta:

Boil penne pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.

Add minced beef and cook until browned.

Stir in chopped canned tomatoes and simmer for 10–15 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Bake:

Mix the cooked penne with the meat sauce and half of the cheese sauce.

Pour into the prepared baking dish.

Spread remaining cheese sauce over the top and sprinkle with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.

6. Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips