Ground Beef Pasta Bake

Ground Beef Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, cheesy, and full of rich tomato flavor. This baked casserole blends tender pasta, savory ground beef, and melted cheese in one satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with simple pantry staples
• A complete meal the whole family will enjoy
• Perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners
• Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients
• Delicious leftovers that reheat well

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ground beef
• onion
• garlic
• marinara sauce
• dried Italian herbs or seasoning
• pasta (penne or ziti work well)
• mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• salt and pepper
• olive oil (optional for sautéing)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat. Once browned, add chopped onions and garlic. Cook until softened.
3. Add sauce: Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors.
4. Combine with pasta: Mix the meat sauce with the cooked pasta in a large bowl.
5. Assemble the bake: In a greased baking dish, layer half the pasta mixture, sprinkle with half the mozzarella. Repeat with remaining pasta and cheese. Top with Parmesan.
6. Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or sausage for a different meat option
• Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more veggies
• Stir in a spoonful of ricotta cheese for a creamy layer
• Try different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or fontina
• Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or hot Italian sausage

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze baked or unbaked in a tightly wrapped container for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until heated through. Add foil if reheating a large portion to prevent drying

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta like rigatoni, rotini, or fusilli.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I keep the pasta from overcooking?

Cook it until just al dente since it will finish cooking in the oven.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, use a meat alternative or substitute with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Mozzarella is classic, but feel free to use a blend of cheeses like cheddar or provolone.

Can I add more sauce?

Definitely. If you like it extra saucy, add a little more marinara to the mix.

What can I serve this with?

Pair it with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The cheese on top should be melted and slightly golden, and the center should be hot and bubbly.

Can I freeze this after baking?

Yes, let it cool completely, then wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I bake it in smaller portions?

Sure! Divide into smaller baking dishes or ramekins and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Pasta Bake is a delicious, fuss-free dish perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. Its classic flavors and comforting texture make it a reliable favorite, whether served fresh from the oven or reheated the next day.

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