Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole

Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole

Introduction:

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole. This dish combines the hearty flavors of seasoned meat, rich pasta, and creamy, melted cheese to create a warm, comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 500g pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
• 500g ground beef or sausage
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 200ml cream
• 200g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 100g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano

Method:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano.
3. Combine: Stir in crushed tomatoes and cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes. Toss the cooked pasta with the meat sauce.
4. Layer and Bake: In a large baking dish, layer half of the pasta and meat mixture. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Repeat with remaining pasta, meat, and cheeses. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Conclusion: This Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole is a delicious and easy dish that brings the comfort of home-cooked meals to your table. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at your next dinner party. Serve hot and enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that promises to be a crowd-pleaser!

Adjust the types of cheese and meat according to your preference or dietary restrictions to personalize your casserole!