Ground Beef Pasta Bake

Name: Ground Beef Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (8 oz) tomato paste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Traditional Family Comfort

This Ground Beef Pasta Bake is a hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners. The combination of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2025-12-24T13:51:39.217Z

This Ground Beef Pasta Bake is not just a meal, it's a delicious experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table. Easy to prepare, it makes an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for hungry appetites
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup
Cheesy goodness that kids will love
Can be customized with your favorite vegetables

A Hearty Family Favorite

Ground Beef Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food that brings families together around the dinner table. With its hearty combination of ground beef, pasta, and rich tomato sauce, it satisfies even the most ravenous appetites. This dish is not only filling but also incredibly flavorful, ensuring that every bite is a delight. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this pasta bake is sure to please everyone.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily adapt it to include your favorite vegetables, making it a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition. Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can add color and flavor, transforming the dish while keeping it wholesome. This means that while your family enjoys a delicious meal, you can also rest assured that they’re getting their daily dose of veggies.

Easy Preparation and Cleanup

One of the best aspects of the Ground Beef Pasta Bake is how easy it is to prepare. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this dish without breaking a sweat. The combination of cooking the pasta and the beef mixture in one pot significantly reduces the number of dishes to wash afterward, making this an ideal recipe for busy weeknights.

Additionally, the bake can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, which is a game-changer for meal prep. Simply prepare the dish earlier in the day and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. This flexibility allows you to spend more time with your family and less time in the kitchen, making it a win-win situation.

Perfect for Customization

The Ground Beef Pasta Bake is incredibly customizable, allowing you to experiment with various flavors and ingredients. Whether you prefer spicy sausage instead of ground beef or want to throw in some mushrooms for an earthy twist, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability makes it a fantastic choice for families with varying tastes, as everyone can enjoy their own version of this classic dish.

You can also modify the cheese blend used in the recipe. If you're a fan of sharp cheddar or creamy Gouda, feel free to substitute them for mozzarella. Each variation brings a unique flavor profile to the dish, ensuring that even if you make it weekly, it never gets boring.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

8 oz elbow macaroni
1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (8 oz) tomato paste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Then, mix in the cooked pasta until well combined.

Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta and beef mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of this pasta bake!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef Pasta Bake experience, consider serving it with a side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the meal's richness and add a refreshing crunch. You might also want to serve some warm garlic bread alongside the dish for a complete Italian-inspired dinner.

For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkling red pepper flakes or drizzling sriracha on top can add a delightful kick. This not only enhances the flavor but also allows each family member to customize their own plate to their liking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is a breeze. Allow the Ground Beef Pasta Bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to label the container with the date for your reference.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, covering with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, making it a convenient option for lunches or busy dinners.

Nutritional Benefits

This Ground Beef Pasta Bake not only satisfies hunger but also provides essential nutrients. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, which are vital for muscle health and energy production. Meanwhile, the incorporation of pasta offers carbohydrates for energy, making this dish a well-rounded meal.

If you choose to add vegetables, you’ll further enhance its nutritional value. Vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to overall health and wellness. This recipe is a delicious way to ensure that your family is getting a balanced diet while enjoying a comforting dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used as a healthier alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta bake for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this pasta bake.