Ground Beef Pasta Bake
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Ground Beef Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a blend of spicy and cheesy toppings, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ground Beef Pasta Bake is a family favorite that brings together the best elements of a hearty meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying option for both kids and adults.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for cold nights
- Cheesy, gooey goodness in every bite
- Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time
A Comforting Classic
Ground Beef Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. The combination of tender pasta and savory ground beef creates a filling dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike. As the weather turns cooler, this hearty bake becomes a go-to choice for family dinners or gatherings, providing a sense of togetherness and joy around the table.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With a few basic ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a meal that feels indulgent yet is easy to manage. Whether you're hosting friends or just enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta bake delivers delicious flavors that everyone will love.
Endless Customization
One of the best aspects of the Ground Beef Pasta Bake is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your family's preferences or dietary requirements. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes or using spicy sausage instead of ground beef can elevate the flavor profile. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, consider swapping the beef for lentils or a mix of your favorite vegetables.
Additionally, you can experiment with different types of pasta or cheeses. While penne is the traditional choice, feel free to substitute it with rotini, ziti, or any pasta shape you have on hand. Mixing in different cheeses, such as cheddar or gouda, can also impart unique flavors and textures to the dish.
Make-Ahead Convenience
This Ground Beef Pasta Bake is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for make-ahead meals. You can assemble the entire dish in advance, refrigerate it, and simply pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat. This feature makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead, allowing for a stress-free cooking experience.
To store leftovers, let the bake cool completely before covering it with foil or transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave. Enjoying this hearty dish the next day makes for a satisfying lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Bake
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
These ingredients combine to create a deliciously layered pasta bake that everyone will love!
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
Combine and Assemble
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Pasta Bake with a side salad or garlic bread!
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef Pasta Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or some steamed vegetables. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing balance. Consider adding garlic bread for a delightful crunch that complements the soft, cheesy pasta.
For a more substantial meal, you can serve this bake alongside roasted vegetables or a seasonal vegetable medley. This not only enhances the visual appeal of your meal but also provides extra nutrients and fiber.
Storage Tips
To maximize freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This pasta bake can last up to three days, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in individual containers. This way, you can easily reheat a single serving without defrosting the entire dish.
When freezing, allow the pasta bake to cool completely before transferring it to the freezer. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake it in the oven until heated through, ensuring you retain the cheesy goodness.
Nutritional Benefits
Beyond its comforting taste, this Ground Beef Pasta Bake offers nutritional benefits as well. Ground beef is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Coupled with the carbohydrates from the pasta, it provides a balanced meal that leaves you feeling satisfied and energized.
The inclusion of tomatoes and onions contributes vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium. By adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, you can further boost the nutrient profile, making this dish not only delicious but also nourishing.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This pasta bake freezes well. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
→ What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ground Beef Pasta Bake
This Ground Beef Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a blend of spicy and cheesy toppings, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Created by: Marina Lowe
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta Bake
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g