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If you are craving a warm, comforting, and utterly satisfying dinner that can easily become a family favorite, this Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender pasta, rich ground beef, savory marinara sauce, and an irresistible blanket of melted cheese, this dish combines simple ingredients into a hearty masterpiece. Each bite delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of Italian seasoning that makes weeknight dinners exciting and special. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe offers both convenience and crowd-pleasing flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe starts with a handful of straightforward ingredients that work together to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a key role: pasta provides the perfect base, ground beef adds savory depth, and cheeses bring that gooey comfort we all love.
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni): Choose a sturdy pasta shape to hold up well during baking and soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds smoothness to sautéing the beef and vegetables without overpowering the dish.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this meal filling and flavorful.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Infuses sweetness and depth as it softens in the pan.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a savory punch with its signature warm aroma.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs enhancing the savory profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors just right.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick without overshadowing other tastes.
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce: The rich, tangy tomato base tying the dish together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang that lightens and enriches the sauce.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly for that gooey, golden cheese topping.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor to complement the mozzarella.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Lends a fresh, bright pop of color and flavor when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your penne or rigatoni and cook until al dente, just firm to the bite, which helps it maintain shape after baking. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the savory beef mixture.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, building rich flavor with each minute. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking them for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and release their sweet and fragrant essence.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Season your beef mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, stirring to evenly distribute the herbs and spices. Pour in the jar of marinara sauce, then simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and thicken. Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the sour cream for a creamy, luscious sauce that perfectly coats the beef and pasta.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Transfer the cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl and pour in the beef and sauce mixture. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to start the gooey factor inside the bake. Mix everything thoroughly so every bit of pasta is generously covered with that delicious meat sauce.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the pasta mixture, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese along with the grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Pop the dish into your preheated oven at 375°F and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbling and has turned a beautiful golden brown. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving to help it set nicely.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a lovely pop of green but also injects fresh herbaceous notes that brighten this rich dish. For a bit of extra zing, you can offer red pepper flakes on the side to those who love a little heat.
Side Dishes
This hearty, cheesy pasta bake pairs wonderfully with light, crisp side dishes to balance the meal. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette, roasted seasonal vegetables, or garlic bread are all fantastic companions, enhancing the Italian comfort food vibe without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins for personalized portions. You could also layer in sautéed spinach or roasted peppers for color and nutrition before baking. Another idea is to top each serving with a sunny-side-up egg for a decadent brunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen, making it a convenient and delicious lunch or dinner option for days after you first bake it.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, perfect for batch cooking. After baking and cooling completely, divide into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to enjoy on a busy day with minimal effort.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly again. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered loosely to keep moisture in, stirring halfway for even heating. Adding a splash of marinara or water before reheating prevents dryness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni are ideal for holding the sauce and toppings, you can switch to fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells without compromising taste or texture.
Is there an easy way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Adding vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini can boost flavor and keep it hearty without meat.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire dish and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a fantastic option for having dinner ready to pop in the oven when you get home.
What can I substitute for sour cream if I don’t have any?
You can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese as substitutes; both will add a creamy tang that complements the sauce beautifully, preserving the dish’s luscious texture.
How spicy is this dish, and can I adjust the heat?
This Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe is mild and kid-friendly in its base form. For more spice, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce either while cooking or at the table according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe is truly one of those soul-satisfying dishes that bring people to the table with smiles and full bellies. Its rich, cheesy layers and comforting flavors make it perfect for any night you want a fuss-free yet impressive meal. I hope you give it a go soon and discover how this simple combination of everyday ingredients can create something absolutely memorable. Happy baking!
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Print
Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Description
A comforting and hearty Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta featuring tender penne pasta mixed with a savory ground beef and marinara sauce, enriched with creamy sour cream and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Meat and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the pasta casserole.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Brown Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Season and Add Sauce: Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream thoroughly, creating a creamy sauce base.
- Combine Pasta and Meat Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the beef and sauce mixture evenly. Add 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella and stir to combine well.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the pasta mixture. Spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or sausage for the ground beef for variation in flavor.
- Add vegetables like fresh spinach or diced bell peppers to increase nutritional value.
- This dish is excellent for meal prepping and reheats well for convenient leftovers.
