Ground Beef And Pasta Bake With Cheese

Name: Ground Beef And Pasta Bake With Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: From the Oven

I often find myself craving a hearty, comforting dish that satisfies all my hunger pangs, and that's exactly what this Ground Beef and Pasta Bake with Cheese delivers. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare during those busy weeknights. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a gooey cheese topping, it’s a meal that brings everyone together. Plus, the leftovers heat up perfectly for lunch the next day!

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:25:38.123Z

As I experimented with different flavor combinations, I quickly realized that using a good-quality ground beef adds so much depth to the dish. I played around with herbs and spices, and I found that a hint of smoked paprika made a world of difference. It gives the dish a unique twist while still keeping the classic flavors intact.

The secret to achieving a rich and hearty taste lies in simmering the beef with onions and garlic before mixing it with the pasta. This step develops a deep flavor that brings the entire dish together. Don't forget to sprinkle extra cheese on top for that irresistible golden crust!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and savory meat sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta
Creamy cheese topping that creates a delightful crust
Comforting and filling, perfect for family dinners or meal prep

Cooking the Pasta to Perfection

Cooking the elbow macaroni to al dente is crucial for this recipe, as it helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy during baking. Aim for a texture that offers a slight bite, which will absorb the flavors of the meat sauce without losing its shape. Typically, this means boiling the pasta for about 7 to 9 minutes in salted water, but always refer to the package instructions for specifics.

After draining the macaroni, consider rinsing it briefly under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps to firm up the pasta. While not mandatory, it also prevents the noodles from sticking together as they wait to be combined with the beef sauce.

Enhancing the Beef Mixture

The flavor of your ground beef mixture is key to the overall taste of the bake. To elevate the savory notes, you might consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet as the beef browns. These little additions can amp up the flavor profile significantly, creating a rich and mouthwatering base.

If you prefer a leaner dish, turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef without sacrificing too much flavor. Just be cautious with the cooking time, as lean meats can dry out faster; keeping an eye on the pan and adding a splash of broth if needed can help maintain moisture.

Perfecting the Cheese Layer

For the best cheesy crust, be sure to distribute the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly across the surface of the pasta bake. This ensures every bite is luxuriously topped with gooey cheese. If you want to get creative, adding a sprinkle of paprika or Italian seasoning on top before baking not only adds flavor but also enhances the dish's visual appeal.

Letting the dish rest for about 5 to 10 minutes after baking can create a more cohesive texture as it allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve. If you're planning to serve this dish later, consider underbaking it by a few minutes so that it reheats beautifully without overcooking the pasta or meat.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

For the Bake

1 pound ground beef
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup marinara sauce
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Ensure you have everything ready and prepped before diving into the cooking steps for a seamless experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious and comforting bake!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, beef mixture, and ricotta cheese. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan on top. Bake in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Ensure to let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set nicely!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also swap out the cheeses to suit your taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef and Pasta Bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the beef mixture and cook the pasta up to a day in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge, and it will save time on a busy weeknight. When you're ready to bake, combine the two, layer with cheese, and pop it in the oven for a quick meal.

Leftovers reheat wonderfully, making them ideal for lunch the next day. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture, heating in increments of 1 minute until warmed through. For a crispier top, you can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, serve this dish alongside a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the hearty cheese and beef, providing a lovely contrast. Garlic bread also makes a wonderful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce!

Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. Adding sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture not only enhances nutrition but also adds a beautiful medley of colors. If you're aiming for comfort with a twist, swap out the elbow macaroni for penne or rotini to create a fun and texturally interesting dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this bake perfectly!