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image of fresh ground beef pasta rigatoni penne fusilli marinara sauce mozzarella cheese onion garlic diced tomatoes Italian seasoning provolone cheese cream cheese parmesan fresh basil arranged on white marble kitchen counter with clear glass bowls and rustic brown wooden kitchen sets under soft diffuse daylight
adam saha

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake

A comforting, hearty casserole featuring savory ground beef simmered in a flavorful sauce, tossed with al dente pasta, and topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and provolone for the ultimate cheesy crust.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce & Beef Base
  • 1.5 lbs Ground Beef 85/15 blend for best flavor and texture
  • 1 large Yellow Onion finely diced
  • 4 cloves Garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tbsp Dried Italian Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes optional, for heat
  • 1 28 oz can Crushed Tomatoes
  • 1 15 oz can Diced Tomatoes undrained
  • 1/2 cup Beef Broth
For the Pasta & Cheese
  • 1 lb Dry Pasta such as rigatoni, penne, or ziti
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese low-moisture, whole milk
  • 1 cup Shredded Provolone Cheese
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese for finishing
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese cut into cubes, optional for extra creaminess

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • 9x13-inch baking dish,
  • oven

Method
 

Prepare and Brown the Beef
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, break it up with a spoon, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook until browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Build the Flavor Base
  1. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely diced onion to the pot with the browned beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Simmer the Sauce
  1. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), and beef broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits. If using cream cheese, stir it in until melted. Simmer on low for 10 minutes.
Cook the Pasta
  1. While the sauce simmers, boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta 2 minutes less than package directions (al dente). Drain well.
Combine and Assemble
  1. Add the drained pasta to the sauce pot and stir to combine. Transfer to a lightly oiled 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheese.
Bake and Rest
  1. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly. Rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 25gFat: 22g

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese to avoid anti-caking agents. Pasta should be undercooked as it will soften in the oven. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze unbaked. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes covered to prevent drying out.
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