Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta is a go-to favorite in our household. The combination of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a gooey cheese topping creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the smell of garlic and marinara filled the kitchen, and everyone gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating dinner. With each bite, they were hooked! This recipe has become a staple for busy weeknights and cozy family gatherings, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (such as rigatoni, shells, or elbow)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
   • Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • Stir in the tomato paste, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning into the beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Combine Pasta and Meat Sauce:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat the pasta with the meat sauce.
5. Bake with Cheese:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, and optionally add some Parmesan for extra flavor.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Let the baked pasta cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450 kcal

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm directly from the baking dish.
• Offer a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad.
• Sprinkle with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor.
• Pair with a glass of red wine or iced tea.
• For extra richness, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil on top.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Your Pasta Wisely: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like rigatoni or shells.
2. Don’t Skip the Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
3. Let It Rest: Allow the baked pasta to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
4. Use Leftover Meat: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked ground beef or even turkey.
5. Experiment with Cheese: Mixing different types of cheese can add unique flavors—try a blend of mozzarella and provolone!

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for some heat.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a cup of ricotta or cream cheese into the pasta mixture before baking for extra creaminess.
• Pasta Primavera: Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the meat sauce for added nutrition.
• Cheesy Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and additional cheese for a crunchy topping.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Serve with a crisp Caesar salad for added texture and flavor.
• For a family-style meal, serve directly from the baking dish with a big spoon for easy sharing.
• Consider serving with a light dessert, like a fruit salad or sorbet, to cleanse the palate.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   • Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage work well as alternatives.
2. What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
   • You can use any tomato-based sauce or even a jar of spaghetti sauce.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
4. How can I make it gluten-free?
   • Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties.
5. Is there a way to make it dairy-free?
   • Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and omit the Parmesan.
6. Can I add more vegetables?
   • Yes, feel free to add cooked vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce.
7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   • Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in individual portions.
8. Can I use frozen ground beef?
   • Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
9. How do I know when the dish is fully baked?
   • The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the edges should be slightly golden.
10. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
    • Yes, whole wheat pasta is a healthy alternative and works well in this recipe.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it perfect for any family meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. With its melty cheese topping and savory meat sauce, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home, just as it has in mine. Give it a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed!

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