Ground Beef And Pasta Bake With Cheese

Name: Ground Beef And Pasta Bake With Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Delights

I love nothing more than a cozy dish that combines comfort and flavor, and this Ground Beef and Pasta Bake with Cheese hits the spot perfectly! The layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and luscious cheese create a delightful meal that warms the soul. It’s my go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when I’m hosting friends. The best part is how simple the steps are, making it easy to whip up a delicious dinner that everyone will enjoy. Trust me, this is comfort food at its finest!

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-24T08:14:37.047Z

Creating this Ground Beef and Pasta Bake was a delightful experience. I wanted to combine the flavors I loved into a dish that was both hearty and satisfying. After experimenting with different cheeses and herbs, I landed on a blend that truly elevates the flavors. Adding in some fresh parsley and a dash of chili flakes gave it just the right kick to balance the richness.

One tip I picked up along the way is to slightly undercook the pasta before baking. This allows the noodles to absorb the juices from the beef and sauce while still retaining their texture. When you take that first bite, you’ll taste layers of flavor, making it a family favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Melting, gooey cheese that stretches with every forkful
A satisfying blend of seasoned beef and pasta that’s pure comfort
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Perfecting the Pasta

Cooking pasta in salted water is essential to enhance its flavor. For this recipe, you’ll want to ensure that it’s cooked al dente, which typically takes around 7 minutes. This firmness of the pasta allows it to hold up well during baking. If you overcook it, the pasta may become mushy after baking, so keep an eye on the cooking time. After draining, feel free to rinse the macaroni briefly; this prevents sticking while you prepare the beef mixture.

Choosing the right type of pasta can elevate this dish. While elbow macaroni is a classic choice, you can experiment with other shapes like penne or rotini that have ridges to hold onto the sauce better. Just make sure that you adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different pasta shapes have varying recommended cooking durations.

Layering for Flavor

When assembling your bake, the way you layer the ingredients can significantly impact the flavor and texture. Start with a layer of the meat sauce mixture to create a solid base that keeps the pasta moist. Additionally, spreading half of the cheese in the middle layer introduces a gooey, melty texture that permeates the dish. This method ensures that each bite is packed with flavor, rather than just cheese on top of pasta and meat.

Consider varying the cheeses based on your preference. Cheddar gives a sharp flavor, while mozzarella offers a creamy stretch that is delightful in this bake. If you're looking for a twist, try adding some grated Parmesan for a nutty richness or incorporate fresh herbs like basil for a burst of freshness that complements the hearty ingredients.

Bake and Serve

Baking your dish covered initially is crucial—it helps to trap steam, which prevents the pasta from drying out. After the first 20 minutes, uncovering allows the cheese to become golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it during the last baking stage, as oven temperatures can vary; the desired result is a rich, caramelized top without burning the cheese.

When it’s time to serve, let the bake rest for about 5-10 minutes before cutting. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice clean portions. For a garnish, a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a vibrant color but also a fresh, herbal note that complements the hearty flavors of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delicious dish:

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Have everything ready? Let’s cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ground Beef and Pasta Bake:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning into the skillet with the beef. Season with salt and pepper. Mix in the cooked macaroni until everything is well combined.

Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread half of the meat and pasta mixture in a baking dish, layer with half of the cheese, then repeat the layers.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Enjoy your lovely baked dish!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition, or use your favorite type of cheese for a twist on flavor.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, this dish stores wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it—just make sure it’s in an airtight container. It can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

To reheat, either microwave individual portions or cover the entire dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. If you're reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to ensure even warming throughout.

Ingredient Substitutions

If ground beef isn't available or you prefer a different protein, ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes that still provide a hearty texture. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with mushrooms or lentils, adding depth and earthiness while keeping the dish satisfying.

For those looking to reduce carbohydrates, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Although the texture and flavor will differ, these swaps introduce a fresh twist to the classic recipe, making it suitable for different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Pasta Bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the cheese. Consider serving it with a simple vinaigrette to brighten the meal. Additionally, a side of garlic bread can be a comforting addition, perfect for scooping up any delightful melted cheese.

For a more substantial meal, you could add a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli. This not only adds color to your plate but also complements the hearty nature of the bake, making it a nutritious, well-rounded dinner option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne or rotini would work well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What sides go well with this bake?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with this dish.