Description
This Beef and Pasta Casserole recipe is the ultimate comfort food classic. Made with tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and a generous layer of melted cheese, this hearty baked casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings. A satisfying one-dish meal that’s freezer-friendly and endlessly customizable.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups tomato sauce
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Pour in tomato sauce and stir to combine. Let simmer for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, mix the pasta with the beef and sauce mixture until well combined.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Layer half the pasta mixture in the dish, then sprinkle half the mozzarella and parmesan over it.
7. Add the rest of the pasta mixture, followed by the remaining cheese on top.
8. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
9. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and richer flavor.
Do not overcook the pasta since it will continue to cook in the oven.
Letting the casserole rest before serving helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg