Cheesy Baked Ground Beef Casserole
Comfort food at its best — hearty ground beef, tender pasta, rich sauce, and lots of melted cheese!
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work great)
1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat:
Cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned.
Drain excess grease.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Stir in:
Marinara sauce
Diced tomatoes (if using)
Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper
Simmer 5 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish:
Combine cooked pasta and beef mixture.
Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and ½ cup cheddar.
Top with remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan.
Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden top (watch closely!).
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.