Easy Ground Beef Pasta Bake

Easy Ground Beef Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food for busy households. Packed with tender pasta, savory seasoned beef, rich tomato sauce, and layers of melted cheese, this baked pasta with ground beef delivers classic flavors in a simple, satisfying casserole.

Whether you’re looking for a family dinner pasta recipe, meal prep option, or crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this cheesy beef pasta casserole is a reliable favorite. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and made with everyday pantry staples.

If weeknights feel rushed but you still want a homemade meal, this simple weeknight pasta bake offers both convenience and bold flavor in every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Pasta Bake

• Ready in under an hour
• Perfect for meal prep
• Kid-friendly and customizable
• Freezer-friendly
• Rich, cheesy, and filling

This easy ground beef pasta bake transforms basic ingredients into a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or ziti)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cheese Layer

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Additions

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup ricotta cheese for creamy layers
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Sauce

5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add diced onion and cook until soft.
7. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
8. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
9. Drain excess grease if needed.
10. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
11. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

12. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with beef sauce.
13. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
14. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake

15. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
16. For extra golden cheese, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

Step 5: Serve

17. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
18. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

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Tips for Perfect Baked Pasta

Cook Pasta Al Dente

Slightly firm pasta prevents overcooking during baking.

Season Generously

Taste the sauce before assembling to ensure balanced flavor.

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese

Freshly grated mozzarella melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.

Let It Rest

Allowing the casserole to rest helps the layers set for cleaner slices.

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Flavor Variations

Creamy Version

Add ricotta cheese between layers for extra richness.

Vegetable Boost

Stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.

Spicy Twist

Add red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

Mexican-Inspired

Replace Italian seasoning with taco seasoning and use cheddar cheese.

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Serving Suggestions

Easy ground beef pasta bake pairs well with:

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Steamed broccoli
• Roasted vegetables

It’s perfect for:

• Family weeknight dinners
• Potlucks
• Meal prep
• Casual gatherings
• Comfort food cravings

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Storage and Freezing

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze unbaked or baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sauce is gluten-free.

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Final Thoughts

Easy Ground Beef Pasta Bake is a dependable, flavorful dish that brings comfort and convenience together in one cheesy casserole. With tender pasta, savory beef, and melted mozzarella, this baked pasta with ground beef satisfies both kids and adults alike.

If you’re searching for a simple weeknight pasta bake that doubles as a meal prep solution, this cheesy beef pasta casserole deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.