Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake Recipe

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Kitchen Equipment:

  • Large pot for cooking pasta
  • Skillet or large pan for browning beef
  • Mixing bowls
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Spatula and wooden spoon
  • Aluminum foil for baking

Directions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

  1. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the beef, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Mix the Pasta and Sauce

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and tomato sauce mixture. If you’re using ricotta cheese, stir it into the pasta mixture for added creaminess.
  2. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

  1. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the pasta.
  2. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.

Step 5: Bake the Pasta

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  2. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly browned.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Once baked, let the pasta rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips and Tricks:

  1. Make it Ahead: This pasta bake can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
  2. Sneak in Veggies: Add some nutrition by stirring in finely chopped veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. The veggies will blend in with the sauce, adding flavor and nutrients without changing the dish too much.
  3. Extra Creamy Option: For an even richer and creamier pasta bake, stir in ricotta cheese or even a béchamel sauce (white sauce) before baking.
  4. Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a bit of hot sauce to the meat sauce for extra kick.

Storing Leftovers:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop individual portions into the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to freeze it before baking. Assemble the pasta bake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

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