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Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole

Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole

Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish featuring savory ground beef, tender penne or rigatoni pasta, and layers of melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and family-friendly, this casserole delivers a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, and any occasion where comfort food is needed.

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

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside to keep warm.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and chopped parsley. Stir in the marinara sauce and cook for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.
  3. Layer the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish. Spread half of the cooked pasta evenly on the bottom. Top with half of the beef and sauce mixture, then sprinkle a generous layer of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend. Repeat with the remaining pasta, beef mixture, and finish with a final layer of cheese to create a golden crust.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and lightly golden brown on top.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve with your choice of side dishes.

Notes

  • Use warm pasta when mixing layers to promote better sauce absorption and prevent clumping.
  • Do not overcook pasta; slightly undercooked pasta will finish cooking in the oven for a perfect texture.
  • Drain excess fat from the cooked beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • Layer cheese between and on top of the casserole to ensure maximum cheesy flavor.
  • Let the casserole rest after baking to set the layers, making it easier to slice and serve.
  • For variations, add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Swap ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for alternative protein options.
  • Try different cheeses such as Parmesan, provolone, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gouda for varied flavors.
  • Substitute pasta with gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free version without compromising taste.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free pasta is used)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (1/6 of casserole)
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: cheesy casserole, ground beef casserole, comfort food, baked pasta, easy dinner, family meal, layered casserole, weeknight meal