Ground Beef Pasta Bake

Name: Ground Beef Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni); 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A comforting and satisfying dish, this Ground Beef Pasta Bake combines hearty ingredients for a family-friendly meal.

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:06:51.174Z

This Ground Beef Pasta Bake is a perfect weeknight dinner option. It's simple to prepare, and the whole family will love it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for any appetite.
Easy to make and perfect for leftovers.
Cheesy, comforting goodness in every bite.

      

A Perfect Family Meal

When it comes to family dinners, few dishes can compete with a hearty pasta bake. This Ground Beef Pasta Bake is not only delicious but also incredibly filling, making it ideal for hungry bellies. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a leisurely Sunday dinner, this dish brings everyone together around the table, fostering a sense of warmth and togetherness.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This flexibility ensures that you can cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any household.

An Easy One-Pot Dish

One of the standout features of this Ground Beef Pasta Bake is its simplicity. With just a few steps, you can create a meal that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. The use of one skillet for the beef mixture and a baking dish for the final bake reduces cleanup time, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of a mountain of dishes.

Moreover, this dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and simply pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat. It also makes for excellent leftovers, as the flavors continue to meld and improve over time.

Cheesy Goodness

What's better than a comforting pasta bake? A cheesy one! This recipe features both mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, creating a delightful layer of gooey goodness atop the dish. As it bakes, the cheese melts beautifully, forming a golden crust that adds both texture and flavor to each serving.

Cheese not only enhances the taste but also elevates the visual appeal of the dish. The bubbling, melted cheese is sure to entice even the pickiest eaters, making it easier to serve up seconds. Plus, the combination of flavors from the beef, tomatoes, and cheese creates a satisfying experience in every bite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened. Add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with the beef mixture. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Assemble the Bake

In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and beef mixture. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Storing and Reheating

Storing leftovers from your Ground Beef Pasta Bake is simple and effective. After the dish has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy it again without the fuss of cooking from scratch.

When reheating, consider using the oven to preserve the texture of the cheese and pasta. Simply cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the oven method is preferred for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Ground Beef Pasta Bake, consider serving it with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Alternatively, some garlic bread or crusty rolls can enhance the meal, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

For a touch of elegance, garnish the baked dish with fresh basil or parsley just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also infuses the dish with additional flavor, elevating your homemade meal to a restaurant-quality experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner dish.

→ What type of cheese can I use?

Feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or a blend of cheeses.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.