Introduction
When you need a comforting, family-approved dinner that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Casserole is the perfect choice. Made with tender pasta, savory seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and layers of melted cheese, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meals. One bite and it’s guaranteed to become a regular on your dinner menu.
Ingredients
Pasta & Beef Layer
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rotini, or elbows)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 jar (24 oz / 680 g) marinara or tomato sauce
- ½ cup corn or diced bell peppers (optional)
Cheese Layer
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Colby-Jack cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping (Optional)
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta until al dente, according to package directions.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
- Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Pour in tomato sauce and simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine cooked pasta with beef sauce and spread evenly in the dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Tips for Best Results
- Use a mix of cheeses for richer flavor.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if desired.
- Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra veggies.
- For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze unbaked or baked casserole for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, filling, and loaded with cheesy goodness. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and big flavor make it a go-to recipe for any night of the week.