Loaded Beef & Three-Cheese Pasta Casserole

When comfort food calls, nothing answers quite like a hearty Loaded Beef & Three-Cheese Pasta Casserole. This dish brings together perfectly cooked pasta, savory ground beef, a medley of cheeses, and a rich marinara sauce, creating a casserole that’s both satisfying and irresistibly cheesy. It’s the ideal weeknight dinner to feed the family or impress guests with minimal effort but maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Loaded Beef & Three-Cheese Pasta Casserole is one of those recipes that quickly becomes a staple. Why? Because it balances convenience and indulgence so well. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses adds layers of creamy, gooey, and sharp flavors that complement the seasoned beef and tender pasta. Plus, the addition of diced bell pepper and turkey bacon adds texture and a touch of smoky goodness without overpowering the dish. It’s customizable, freezer-friendly, and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this casserole keeps showing up on dinner tables.

Ingredient Checklist

• 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you like)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (choose a good-quality brand or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked turkey bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Large pot – for boiling the pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook the beef and veggies
• Mixing bowl – to combine cheeses and pasta
• Baking dish (9×13 inch works well) – to bake the casserole
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons – to get ingredient quantities right
• Aluminum foil – to cover the casserole while baking

Make Loaded Beef & Three-Cheese Pasta Casserole: A Simple Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne or rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Season and Add Sauce

Stir Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper into the beef mixture. Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and marinara mixture. Add the ricotta, mozzarella, cheddar, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Gently fold everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish and pour in the pasta mixture. Sprinkle the cooked turkey bacon evenly over the top, then finish with the remaining Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Fall: Add roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a cozy twist.
• Winter: Stir in sautéed mushrooms and kale for earthiness and nutrition.
• Spring: Toss in fresh peas or asparagus tips for brightness.
• Summer: Use fresh basil and diced tomatoes to enhance the marinara sauce.

Little Things that Matter

• Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture holds up better when baked.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a sharper, more vibrant flavor.
• Let the casserole rest after baking for easier slicing and serving.
• Experiment with different cheese blends to suit your taste preferences.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

This Loaded Beef & Three-Cheese Pasta Casserole stores beautifully. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. For longer storage, freeze before baking or after it has cooled completely. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Common Qs About Loaded Beef & Three-Cheese Pasta Casserole

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni work wonderfully due to their shape holding sauce well, you can swap in fusilli, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni. Just keep the cooking time consistent to maintain a firm texture.

Is turkey bacon necessary, or can I skip it?

Turkey bacon adds a lovely smoky crunch, but if you prefer, you can leave it out or substitute with diced cooked chicken sausage or even crispy fried mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the casserole through assembly, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for busy days or entertaining, allowing you to bake fresh right before serving.

How does this dish compare to other cheesy pasta bakes?

This recipe stands out with its combination of ground beef, three cheeses, and turkey bacon, creating a robust flavor profile. If you love dishes like the Loaded Cheeseburger Macaroni Pasta or crave a creamy indulgence like the Mac And Cheese Style Pasta Bake, this casserole offers a satisfying and hearty alternative with a rich tomato base and a touch of freshness from parsley.

More from the Kitchen

• Slow Cooker Beef Ragu Pasta – For those days when you want to set it and forget it.
• Loaded Cheeseburger Macaroni Pasta – A fun twist on classic cheeseburger flavors.
• Mac And Cheese Style Pasta Bake – Ultimate comfort food with creamy cheese sauce.

Hungry for More?

If you love this Loaded Beef & Three-Cheese Pasta Casserole, you’ll want to explore other easy and flavorful pasta dishes that bring warmth and smiles to your table. Whether it’s a slow-cooked sauce or a cheesy bake, there’s always a way to make pasta night unforgettable. Keep experimenting and enjoy every bite!

This Loaded Beef & Three-Cheese Pasta Casserole is the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and savory meatiness, wrapped up in comforting pasta. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe will quickly become a favorite go-to. So grab your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to enjoy a cozy, cheesy dinner that hits all the right notes.

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