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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food! Gooey cheese, hearty beef, and tender pasta come together for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz of penne or rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes and 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce. Add 1 tsp each of dried oregano and basil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef tomato sauce. Stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup mozzarella and 1/2 cup Parmesan evenly over the top.
  • Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. For extra crust, broil 2-3 minutes, watching carefully.
  • Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving to thicken the sauce and ease portioning.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet or sauté pan
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch)
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Cheese Grater
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Drain pasta well to avoid a watery bake.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste before mixing for best flavor.
  • Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Use fresh grated cheeses for better melting and flavor.
  • Leftovers store well in refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.