Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake Recipe

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bubbling dish of cheesy pasta bake, and this Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake recipe is no exception. After a long day, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with family and enjoying a hearty meal that everyone loves. This dish has quickly become a favorite in my household. The combination of perfectly cooked pasta, savory ground beef, and melted cheese creates a flavor explosion that warms the heart. Every time I serve this dish, the smiles and empty plates speak volumes about how much my family enjoys it. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to please a crowd, look no further!

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (rigatoni, shells, or any short pasta)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or any melting cheese)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole or baking dish to prevent sticking.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Cook the Ground Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Break it up with a spoon and drain any excess grease.

Add the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper into the ground beef mixture. Allow this to simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors blend.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and tomato sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.

Layer the Bake

In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the pasta and beef mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and a bit of Parmesan cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a slight golden crust.

Garnish and Serve

Once the cheesy pasta bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 550
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
• Pair with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Accompany with garlic bread or a crusty baguette.

Additional Tips

1. Make it Ahead: You can prepare the pasta bake a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
2. Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the meat mixture.
3. Cheese Variety: Feel free to mix different types of cheese. Cheddar, provolone, or gouda can add unique flavors.
4. Spice it Up: If you like a kick, add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
5. Garnish Creatively: Besides parsley, consider using fresh basil or grated lemon zest for an aromatic touch.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with a mix of lentils, beans, or mushrooms.
• Creamy Addition: For a creamy texture, stir in a cup of ricotta cheese or cream cheese before baking.
• Different Pasta Shapes: Try different pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or macaroni for a fun twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad.
• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for a sweet tang.
• Pair with a glass of red wine to enhance the meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative.
2. Can I use store-bought sauce?
   Absolutely! Using a store-bought marinara sauce can save time.
3. How do I know when it’s done baking?
   The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the edges may start to brown slightly.
4. Can I add more cheese?
   Feel free to increase the amount of cheese to your liking for an extra cheesy bake!
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   You can use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.
6. What type of cheese works best?
   Mozzarella is the best for melting, but you can experiment with other cheeses too.
7. How spicy can I make it?
   You can add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to increase the spice level.
8. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
9. Is there a vegan version?
   Yes, use plant-based ground meat and vegan cheese for a vegan option.
10. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Reheat in the oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, or use the microwave for quick reheating.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings family and friends together. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this dish is bound to satisfy. With its rich flavors, gooey cheese, and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy every bite of this delicious comfort food!

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