Ultimate Cheesy Baked Beef Pasta Casserole
A warm, hearty, and irresistibly cheesy pasta bake loaded with seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and layers of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked until golden and bubbling, this comforting casserole delivers classic Italian-inspired flavors in every delicious bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a satisfying homemade meal.
The savory beef sauce coats every piece of pasta while the melted cheese creates a gooey, golden topping that makes this dish impossible to resist. Simple ingredients come together to create a crowd-pleasing casserole that’s comforting, filling, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rotini, or ziti)
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz (680 g) pasta sauce or marinara sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the meat sauce and stir until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete and comforting meal.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Cheesy, hearty, and baked to golden perfection—this Beef Pasta Casserole is the ultimate family comfort food!
