Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake Recipe

If you are craving a heartwarming, cheesy, and satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles, this Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. With perfectly cooked pasta drenched in a rich tomato and ground beef sauce, topped with layers of gooey melted cheese, it’s comfort food at its finest. This dish balances the savory depth of beef with the fresh herbs and the irresistible pull of melted cheese, making it a guaranteed favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish so memorable. From tender pasta to the zesty tomato sauce and melty cheeses, every item contributes to the perfect bake.

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (rigatoni, shells, or any short pasta): Ideal shapes that hold sauce beautifully for every bite.
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef: Provides a rich, savory base and hearty texture.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that elevates the entire dish.
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Creates the luscious sauce that binds everything together.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds texture and fresh tomato flavor.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses Mediterranean flair.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a subtle smoky kick and vibrant hue.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings for balanced flavor.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or any melting cheese): The star that brings gooey, stretchy magic.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty sharpness and richness.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens the dish with fresh herbaceous notes.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding a smooth richness.

How to Make Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a large casserole dish to ensure your cheesy creation doesn’t stick. While the oven heats, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. This slight firmness ensures that the pasta doesn’t turn mushy once baked, giving you the perfect bite every time. Once done, carefully drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics and Beef

Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat and add your finely chopped onion and garlic. Sauté them just until they become soft and fragrant — about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds the flavor foundation for your bake. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon, and cook until nicely browned. Browning develops that irresistible meaty depth and juices that make the sauce stand out. Be sure to drain any excess grease afterward for a perfectly balanced dish.

Step 3: Simmer the Flavorful Sauce

Into your browned beef mixture, stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer gently for about 10 minutes so the flavors can mingle and the sauce thickens slightly. It’s this simmering that transforms simple ingredients into a rich and comforting sauce that hugs every noodle in the bake.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Transfer the cooked pasta into a large mixing bowl and pour the beef and tomato sauce over it. Gently stir everything together until each piece of pasta is fully coated with the savory sauce. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor and none of the pasta stays plain or dry under the cheese topping.

Step 5: Layer and Bake

Now for the fun part: assembling your cheesy masterpiece. Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the first layer of mozzarella and a generous pinch of Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and finish the dish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan to create a golden, bubbly cheese crust during baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Cover the dish with foil and pop it into the oven for 15 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Let it rest for a few minutes once out of the oven to allow the flavors to settle and the cheese to firm up slightly for easier serving.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish your Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake Recipe by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley on top. This final touch adds a lovely pop of green and a subtle freshness that balances the rich, cheesy goodness effortlessly.

How to Serve Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic and beautiful garnish, but you can also add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. A few fresh basil leaves would brighten the presentation and flavor wonderfully too.

Side Dishes

This hearty bake pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls work wonderfully to mop up any extra sauce and cheese, making the meal even more indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, try serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. You can also top the bake with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs before baking for a delightful crunchy contrast to the melty cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop beautifully overnight, making it a perfect dish to prepare ahead and enjoy later with minimal effort.

Freezing

This Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake Recipe freezes very well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes, to maintain that cheesy texture without drying out. You can also microwave portions, but be sure to cover and stir halfway for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this bake?

Absolutely! While rigatoni and shells are great because they hold sauce well, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or ziti will work beautifully in this Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake Recipe.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. The blend of tomato sauce and cheese still provides a rich and comforting bake.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Definitely. You can assemble the dish up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes dinner on busy days a breeze.

What kind of cheese works best?

Mozzarella is ideal for its melting quality, but feel free to mix in cheeses like provolone or cheddar for extra flavor. Parmesan adds a lovely sharpness on the top, so don’t skip it!

How can I add more veggies to the dish?

Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach into the beef mixture while sautéing the onions and garlic for a nutritious boost without sacrificing any of that classic comfort.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake Recipe is one of those deliciously satisfying dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its comforting layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and bubbling cheese, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. I encourage you to try it out soon—you might just find your new favorite go-to dinner to share with friends and family!

Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake Recipe

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4 from 31 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for family dinners. Combining tender pasta with a savory ground beef tomato sauce, topped with a gooey blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked to bubbly perfection. It’s easy to prepare and delivers rich flavors with a satisfying texture.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (rigatoni, shells, or any short pasta)

Beef Mixture

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cheese Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or any melting cheese)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole or baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Sauté aromatics and brown beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned and crumbly. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
4. Prepare the sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper into the browned beef mixture. Allow it to simmer for 10 minutes so the flavors meld together and the sauce slightly thickens.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Transfer the cooked pasta into a large mixing bowl. Pour the beef and tomato sauce mixture over the pasta and stir until fully coated and evenly combined.
6. Assemble the bake: Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and a portion of Parmesan cheese over the top. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then finish by topping with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for a deliciously cheesy crust.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
8. Finish and serve: Allow the pasta bake to cool for a few minutes to set up and avoid burns. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a fresh, herbal note before serving.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or shells works well for this bake.
• The dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; bake directly from chilled, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a little heat.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor, not pre-grated powder.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American