Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake

Name: Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini works great); 1 cup marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Recipes

I always find comfort in a hearty Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake, and this recipe never disappoints. It's a delightful blend of tender beef, pasta, and gooey cheese that brings my family together at the dinner table. The melty cheese topping is simply irresistible, ensuring that everyone comes back for seconds. Plus, I love how this recipe is quick to prepare and is perfect for busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it a regular part of your meal rotation!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:34:28.360Z

When I first created this Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake, I wanted something that would warm both my heart and my stomach. The combination of seasoned beef with pasta, smothered in a delightful cheese blend, felt like a hug in a dish. As we gathered around the table, the aroma filled the air, and the kids couldn’t wait to dive in.

One tip I discovered along the way is to let the pasta bake rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes serving a breeze. The golden cheese crust on top is genuinely the cherry on top of this comforting dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, savory flavors that please a crowd
Melty, gooey cheese that pulls apart perfectly
Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients

Perfecting Your Pasta

Choosing the right type of pasta is crucial for this Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake. I recommend using penne or rotini because their shapes hold sauce well and create a delightful texture in each bite. Cooking the pasta until it's al dente ensures it retains some firmness in the oven, preventing it from becoming mushy during baking. Watch the cooking time closely; it typically ranges from 8 to 12 minutes, depending on the brand.

After draining the pasta, toss it with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking together while you prepare the beef and sauce. This small step makes a big difference in maintaining the integrity of the pasta as it bakes with the beef and cheese.

Layering for the Best Flavor

When layering the pasta mixture with cheese, I like to start with a base of the pasta and meat mixture. This helps create an even distribution of flavors. Using half of the mozzarella for the first layer allows for melting into the pasta, creating a luscious, gooey texture that’s highly satisfying. Don’t skimp on the cheese in this layer—it’s key to achieving that perfect melty top.

Think about garnishing your baked dish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor profile. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also offer an exciting kick for those who prefer a spicier dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, assemble everything a day before and cover it tightly with foil. Just make sure to place it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before popping it into the oven to ensure even cooking. This is particularly important to avoid a cold center.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave; just be sure to cover them to retain moisture.

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini works great)
1 cup marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Enjoy the satisfying blend of flavors in this comforting dish!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the beef. Stir to combine. Then, add the cooked pasta and mix well.

Layer and Bake

Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Top with half of the mozzarella cheese, then layer the remaining pasta and top with the rest of the cheese and the Parmesan.

Final Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serve hot and enjoy your comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable if you're looking for alternatives. For instance, ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a leaner option. If you're aiming for a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a mix of assorted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, ensuring you cook them down before combining them with the sauce.

Cheese lovers can also play around with different types of cheese. While mozzarella is a classic choice, combining it with cheddar or pepper jack can enhance the flavor profile. Also, if you're watching your dairy intake, there are excellent non-dairy cheese alternatives on the market that melt well.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pasta bake comes out too dry, it may be that the pasta absorbed too much liquid during baking. A helpful tip is to add a splash of water or extra marinara to the mixture before layering it into the baking dish. This will help keep it moist while baking.

Conversely, if you notice it bubbling over in the oven, it can be a sign of too much liquid. To prevent this from happening, avoid overcooking the pasta before combining it with the beef and sauce, and make sure to use a deep enough baking dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. Just bake it when you're ready to serve!

→ What types of cheese can I use?

Feel free to use any cheese you love! Cheddar, gouda, or a blend of your favorites work wonderfully.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like; just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.