There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole fresh from the oven, and this Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe is exactly that kind of dish. Imagine tender pasta perfectly coated in a savory tomato and beef sauce, all topped with bubbling melted cheese that stretches with every bite—pure comfort food magic. It’s not only deliciously hearty but also easy enough for a weeknight dinner, making it a go-to family favorite that everyone will ask you to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to bring this recipe to life. Each component plays an essential role in making the flavors pop, textures sing, and the final dish delightfully satisfying.
- 12 oz pasta (such as rigatoni, shells, or elbow): Holds the sauce beautifully and provides a perfect bite.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds rich, meaty flavor and hearty texture.
- 1 small onion (diced): Offers a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aromatic warmth and a savory punch.
- 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce: Creates the tangy tomato base that ties the dish together.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor for richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that infuses the sauce with classic Italian vibes.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Balances flavors and enhances the overall taste.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar): Melts beautifully to give that beloved cheesy topping.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a salty, nutty kick for extra flavor complexity.
- Olive oil (for sautéing): Used to gently cook the onion and garlic, unlocking their flavors.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your choice of pasta—rigatoni, shells, or elbow macaroni all work beautifully—and cook it according to the package instructions until just al dente. This ensures the pasta remains firm enough to hold up during baking without turning mushy. Once it’s perfectly cooked, drain it well and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, letting it soften and release its sweetness for about 2 to 3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown thoroughly for 5 to 7 minutes, developing those deep, savory flavors. If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep the dish balanced and not greasy.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Into the cooked beef, stir the tomato paste, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. This combination creates a luscious, herb-infused sauce that clings to every pasta piece. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This simmering step is essential to marry the flavors and thicken the sauce just right.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Meat Sauce
Now for the fun part—add the cooked pasta directly into your skillet with the meat sauce. Toss everything together so the pasta is evenly coated with that rich, flavorful sauce. This step guarantees every bite bursts with the perfect balance of beef, tomato, and herbs.
Step 5: Bake with Cheese
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the saucy pasta mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella across the top; you can also add Parmesan for a deeper cheesy flavor. Pop it into the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly blanket. This baking step transforms the dish into a comforting, gooey celebration of flavors and textures.
Step 6: Serve Your Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe
Once out of the oven, let the pasta cool for a few minutes to set up—it makes serving easier and helps the flavors settle. Every scoop will have that irresistible cheesy pull and a hearty tomato-meat backdrop that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley add vibrant color and a hint of herbal brightness to your baked beef pasta. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can also add a lovely finishing touch that invites everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese and beef. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette slices are also fantastic for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress up your Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe, try serving it in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for a “personal pot pie” style look. A dusting of fresh Parmesan and a sprig of herb on top make every portion feel special and restaurant-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesy baked beef pasta keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor—this meal tastes just as good the next day, often even better as the flavors meld overnight.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the baked pasta in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped with foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals forming and affecting texture.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your saved cheesy baked beef pasta is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again, typically 15-20 minutes. You can also use a microwave for convenience, but the oven helps maintain that delicious baked texture and melty cheese.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great leaner substitutes. Even a mixture of sausage and beef can enhance the flavor. Just adjust seasoning to complement the meat choice.
What type of pasta works best for this baked dish?
Pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like rigatoni, shells, or elbow macaroni, are ideal. Their hollow or ridged surfaces catch the meat sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version. The cheese and sauce will still provide plenty of comfort.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before baking?
Definitely. You can assemble the pasta and sauce mixture in the baking dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a little extra baking time if it’s chilled when going into the oven.
What cheeses work best for the topping?
Mozzarella is a classic for melting, but mixing it with sharp cheddar or sprinkling Parmesan on top adds layers of flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheeses!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about gathering around the table with a piping hot dish like this Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe. It’s one of those recipes that feels both nostalgic and fresh, simple but impressive, and always satisfying. So grab your ingredients, turn on the oven, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this hearty, cheesy delight. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your family will thank you with every delicious bite.
Print
Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta is a comforting and hearty dish featuring perfectly cooked pasta combined with savory ground beef simmered in a rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a family-friendly meal that’s quick to prepare and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (such as rigatoni, shells, or elbow)
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Then add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning into the cooked beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Combine Pasta and Meat Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the meat sauce and stir well to evenly coat the pasta.
- Bake with Cheese: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top, and optionally add the grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the baked pasta cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, comforting meal!
Notes
- Use your favorite pasta shape – rigatoni, shells, or elbows all work great.
- For a richer flavor, try mixing mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- You can prepare the meat sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge for convenient assembly later.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the sauce while simmering.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
