Description
Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole
You Will Need:
1 lb macaroni pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded gouda cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta until al dente.
Brown ground beef in olive oil, mix with marinara sauce.
Combine pasta, sauce, and gouda cheese, then transfer to a baking dish.
Sprinkle mozzarella on top and bake for 20 minutes.
Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Who’s a fan of cheesy baked pasta dishes? Share your thoughts!
#GoudaCheeseBake
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the 1 lb of macaroni pasta until it is just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 1 lb of ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until thoroughly browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the 1 1/2 cups of marinara sauce, letting the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, the meat sauce, and the 1 cup of shredded gouda cheese. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Transfer this mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a vegetable side, try roasted broccoli or garlic breadsticks. To make it a feast for guests, serve alongside a charcuterie board to start and a light, fruity red wine like a Chianti.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook pasta al dente. Brown beef and mix with sauce. Combine pasta, sauce, and gouda. Top with mozzarella. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or shells are excellent alternatives that hold sauce and cheese well.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I freeze the baked casserole?
Yes. Let it cool completely, wrap it well in foil and plastic, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, covered, in a 350°F oven.
What can I substitute for Gouda cheese?
If you don’t have Gouda, sharp cheddar, fontina, or a smoked provolone would provide a similar creamy, flavorful melt.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
It’s ready when the cheese on top is fully melted, the edges are bubbling vigorously, and the top has spots of golden brown.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: It will continue to cook in the oven. Use al dente pasta to avoid a mushy final texture.
- Not draining the beef fat: Skipping this step can make the final dish greasy.
- Using pre-shredded cheese exclusively: While convenient, pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can hinder melting. For best results, shred your own block cheese.
- Under-seasoning: Remember to salt your pasta water generously, as it’s a key chance to season the pasta itself.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish. With its rich meat sauce, tender pasta, and double layer of gooey cheese, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a perfect, hearty meal any night of the week. Don’t forget to experiment with the serving suggestions to make it your own!
