Description
Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups béchamel sauce (or store-bought white sauce)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Prepare the Sauce: Add the béchamel sauce to the skillet with the ground beef and mix until combined. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine: Mix the cooked pasta with the beef and sauce mixture until evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes:
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake is creamy, hearty, and loaded with cheesy goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks!
#PastaBake #CheesyComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for a foolproof bake. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: chop the onion, mince the garlic, shred the cheeses, and have your béchamel ready. Start by boiling the pasta in a large pot of well-salted water—this is your only chance to season the pasta itself. While it cooks, begin browning the ground beef in a large skillet. Drain the fat thoroughly to prevent a greasy final dish. Add the aromatics (onion and garlic) directly to the beef to sauté, maximizing flavor. Once the pasta is drained, combine it immediately with the beef and sauce mixture in the skillet, tossing to coat every piece. Transfer to your prepared baking dish, top evenly with cheese, and bake on the middle rack for that perfect golden top.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides. For a fresh contrast, serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are perfect for scooping up every last bit. For a vegetable side, try roasted broccoli or asparagus. To make it a true comfort food feast, a side of creamy coleslaw works beautifully.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook pasta al dente. Brown beef with onion, garlic, and seasoning. Stir in béchamel sauce. Combine sauce mixture with pasta. Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of béchamel sauce? A good quality jarred Alfredo sauce is a fine substitute. You can also use a 24-ounce jar of marinara sauce for a tomato-based version.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, shells, or cavatappi are excellent choices as their shapes hold sauce well.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Can I freeze this bake? It freezes well after baking. Cool completely, wrap tightly in foil and plastic, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, covered, in the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook only to al dente, as it will soften further in the oven.
- Not draining the beef fat: Skipping this step leads to a greasy, separated sauce.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: These contain anti-caking agents that can make the topping grainy. Shredding your own cheese ensures a smoother, creamier melt.
- Underseasoning: Season the beef layer well, and don’t forget to salt the pasta water generously.
- Using a dish that’s too small: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal. Overfilling a smaller dish can lead to messy overflow in your oven.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake is the ultimate reliable recipe for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly creamy, cheesy, and golden result every time. Its versatility for make-ahead meals and easy customization makes it a staple recipe you’ll return to again and again. Dig in and enjoy the delicious, comforting results of your simple efforts.