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Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole: A Comforting Classic

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Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole: A Comforting Classic

 

Introduction
Cheesy baked pasta casserole is the ultimate comfort food, loved by both kids and adults alike. This dish combines al dente pasta, savory ground meat, rich tomato sauce, and layers of gooey melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings, it’s a recipe that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a hearty and flavorful baked pasta casserole.


Ingredients

For the pasta:

  • 300g (10 oz) penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the meat sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 500g (1 lb) ground beef or turkey
  • 1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the cheese layer:

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  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (250g) ricotta or cream cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until slightly undercooked (about 1 minute less than package instructions). Drain, toss with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and soft, about 3 minutes.
    • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
    • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Assemble the Casserole:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom. Add half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the ricotta or cream cheese, and sprinkle a third of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
    • Layer with the remaining pasta, followed by the rest of the meat sauce, ricotta, and the remaining cheeses.
  4. Bake the Casserole:
    • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
  5. Serve:
    • Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Conclusion
This cheesy baked pasta casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its layers of flavorful meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta make it an irresistible meal. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying dinner. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!

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