Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole

The Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole is a classic comfort food that brings together tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a delightful mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. The combination of savory meat sauce and gooey, melted cheese makes it a favorite for all ages. Plus, it’s easy to make, customizable, and budget-friendly. Let’s dive into this ultimate comfort recipe that’s sure to become a household staple.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups cooked pasta (any type, such as elbow macaroni or rotini)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Steps: How to Make Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked.
  2. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
  3. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
  4. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and meat sauce. Mix well to coat the pasta evenly.
  3. Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Add the Cheese Layers

  1. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta mixture.
  2. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese to create a gooey, golden crust.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

  1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
  2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a slight golden brown hue.
  3. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate):

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 24g
  • Fat: 17g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 850mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole as directed, cover it with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and bake as instructed.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Absolutely. Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or Gouda for added flavor.

Q: What vegetables can I add to this recipe?
A: You can add mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or even shredded carrots to boost the nutritional value.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all canned ingredients (like tomato sauce) are labeled gluten-free.

Tips for Making the Best Casserole:

  1. Choose the Right Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work best because they hold the sauce well.
  2. Season Generously: Be sure to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference before assembling the casserole.
  3. Use Fresh Cheese: For the best melting and flavor, shred your cheese fresh instead of using pre-packaged shredded cheese.
  4. Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil on top for a crunchy finish.
  5. Customize the Protein: Swap out ground beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for variety.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
  2. Freezer: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen or after thawing overnight in the refrigerator.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing guests. Its layers of savory meat sauce, tender pasta, and gooey cheese make it irresistible. With easy preparation steps, common ingredients, and room for customization, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe in your collection. Whether served on a busy weeknight or as a comforting meal on a lazy weekend, this dish never fails to deliver satisfaction.

Enjoy this comforting classic, and don’t forget to pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for the ultimate dining experience!