Indulge in the rich flavors of our Easy Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole, a perfect blend of savory ground beef, hearty pasta, and melting cheese. This family-friendly meal is not just a delightful dinner option but also a smart choice for those seeking budget-friendly recipes that don’t compromise on taste. With ingredients like premium ground beef, fresh Italian herbs, and the best mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this recipe is a standout in homemade comfort food. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, and the leftovers make delicious, easy lunches. Our Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole recipe is sure to become a staple in your collection, combining simplicity with gourmet flavors.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef – 1 pound
- Onion – 1, chopped
- Garlic cloves – 2, minced
- Canned diced tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 ounces)
- Tomato sauce – 1 can (8 ounces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Cooked pasta (like penne or rigatoni) – 3 cups
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1 ½ cups
- Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent. Then, add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: To the skillet, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes.
- Combine with Pasta: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the beef and tomato sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a baking dish, spread half of the pasta and beef mixture. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over it. Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal!