Craving a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor? This cheesy beef and pasta casserole is the answer. It’s like a cheeseburger in a cozy casserole form, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. You can whip this up in no time, and it’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Imagine layers of tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese all baked together to create a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make. The combination of gooey cheese and savory meat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Easy Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole Recipe
This casserole features hearty ground beef, al dente pasta, and rich tomato sauce, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, browned beef, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
