Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole with Meat: A Comforting Family Meal

Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole with Meat: A Comforting Family Meal

Introduction

Baked pasta casseroles are a classic comfort food, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in. This recipe combines pasta, a rich meat sauce, and a generous amount of cheese, all baked together until bubbly and golden brown. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite ingredients and flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
   • Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
   • Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
   • Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
   • Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the meat sauce.
   • Stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
   • Pour half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
   • Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the pasta.
   • Add the remaining pasta mixture to the baking dish.
   • Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.

4. Bake the Casserole:

   • Bake the pasta casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

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   • Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
   • Serve the cheesy baked pasta casserole warm.

Conclusion

This cheesy baked pasta casserole with meat is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of the flavorful meat sauce, the tender pasta, and the melted cheese creates a dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. Feel free to add other vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, peppers, or zucchini, to customize this recipe to your liking. Enjoy!