Name: Hearty Beef and Pasta Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound penne pasta; 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

There’s something truly comforting about a hearty Beef and Pasta Casserole that brings everyone to the dinner table with a smile. This dish not only offers a satisfying blend of flavors but also provides an easy, one-pan solution for busy families. With its delicious layers of tender penne pasta, a rich and hearty tomato-beef sauce, and gooey, melted cheese, it’s no wonder that this casserole has become a staple in many households. Whether you’re short on time during the week or need a crowd-pleaser for a potluck gathering, this casserole is not only quick to prepare but also fills the belly and warms the heart.

This Beef and Pasta Casserole stands out for its simplicity and versatility. Perfect for family dinners, it also works wonderfully for meal prep, allowing you to have satisfying portions ready for those hectic days. The combination of ground beef and a medley of spices creates a robust flavor that is complemented beautifully by the creamy mozzarella and optional ricotta cheese. Plus, cleanup is a breeze with this all-in-one dish, making it a win-win for any home cook.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Pasta Casserole

Flavorful and hearty: Rich tomato and beef sauce mixed with pasta delivers comfort food at its best.
Quick and easy: Prep it in under 30 minutes and bake, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will appreciate the cheesy goodness and filling ingredients.
Meal prep friendly: Make ahead and store in the freezer for busy nights.
Versatile: Adapt to your tastes by adding different vegetables or cheeses.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into your culinary adventure with the Beef and Pasta Casserole, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it allows your casserole to bake evenly and achieve that beautiful golden-brown top.

You’ll need a large pot for boiling the pasta and a skilled to handle sauce preparation. A 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for assembling your casserole. Make sure you have measuring spoons, a cutting board, and knife ready for chopping the onion and garlic. Keeping a wooden spoon nearby for stirring the sauce will also help in achieving that rich flavor. Lastly, don’t forget some aluminum foil to cover the casserole while it bakes and keep everything moist.

Ingredients

1 pound penne pasta
1 pound ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it just until it’s slightly under al dente, which is about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. This is important because the pasta will continue to cook while baking in the oven. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing it to cool while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef and Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Allow it to brown, breaking it up with a spatula into small pieces. Once it’s cooked through, drain any excess fat to create a leaner sauce. Then, introduce the diced onion to the beef mixture. Sauté until the onion is soft, usually around 4 minutes, before adding the minced garlic for 30 more seconds to enhance its flavor.

Step 3: Mix in the Tomato Base

Next, stir in the tomato paste, followed by the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This simmering process helps the flavors meld beautifully together, creating that rich, savory sauce your casserole is famous for.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened slightly, take it off the heat and add the cooked pasta into the skillet. Stir well to ensure that every piece of pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. This step is where the magic happens—watch as those delights of pasta and beef come together in perfect harmony.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Prepare your 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly to prevent sticking. Begin layering by placing half of the pasta mixture in the dish, then, if you’re using ricotta cheese, dollop it over this layer for added creaminess. Next, sprinkle a generous portion of shredded mozzarella cheese over this layer. Repeat the process with the remaining pasta mixture, finishing with another layer of mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and place it into the preheated oven. Bake the casserole for 20 minutes covered to help the flavors meld and the cheeses melt. After that, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. This balance of steam and direct heat gives you the superbly baked top that contrasts beautifully with the rich pasta beneath.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before digging in to give it a pop of color and freshness.

Variations

Protein: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different twist.
Vegetables: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms into the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

For a gluten-free version, swap penne pasta for gluten-free pasta shapes.
Feel free to adjust the cheese types according to your family’s preferences, using sharp cheddar or a Mexican blend for a fun variation.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the casserole with a side salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance richness.
Serve with garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired dinner experience.

Tips

Always preheat your oven; this ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect bubbly top.
If your casserole starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the final baking stages.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 450
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 650mg

FAQs

Can I use any type of pasta for the casserole?

Yes! While penne is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or shells, to mix it up.

Is it possible to prepare the casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Can I freeze Beef and Pasta Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just prepare it as directed, then wrap the assembled dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

What can I serve with Beef and Pasta Casserole?

This dish pairs excellently with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Beef and Pasta Casserole is not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warmth and nostalgia. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy night in, this dish embodies comfort food at its finest. Its simplicity, combined with rich flavors and textures, will make it a favorite in your home. Don’t hesitate to play around with variations to make it your own. We’d love to hear how your Beef and Pasta Casserole turned out, so feel free to comment below or share your personal twists!