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Ground Beef Pasta Bake

A delicious one-dish meal combining pasta, savory ground beef, and melted cheese, perfect for busy nights or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 490 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Beef Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef Lean ground beef works best.
  • 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini) Use short pasta shapes.
  • 1 small onion, diced Provides sweetness and flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the dish's aroma.
  • 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes Adds moisture and tang.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning For a herby flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper For spice.

Cheese and Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Provides creaminess.
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese For an extra savory layer.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for sautéing.
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish Optional for freshness.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cooking

  • Stir in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
  • Combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture, stirring gently to combine.

Baking

  • Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

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Notes

This dish is versatile; add veggies or switch up the meat for customization. Let it rest after baking for better slicing.
Keyword Cheesy Pasta, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Ground Beef Pasta Bake, One-dish Meal