Cheesy Beef Pasta Casserole
Cheesy Beef Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, flavorful dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Featuring tender rotini pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich marinara-based sauce, this casserole is topped with melted cheddar cheese for a creamy finish. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: Simple steps and minimal prep make this dish weeknight-friendly.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A cheesy, hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and bake when ready.
- Customizable: Easily tweak with your favorite seasonings, cheeses, or add-ins.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Pasta
- Rotini Pasta: 400 g
Rotini is perfect for holding the beefy sauce in its twists, but penne or fusilli can also work.
For the Beef Sauce
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
Adds a light flavor and prevents sticking when sautéing. - Ground Beef: 500 g
Use lean ground beef for less grease, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken. - Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
Provides a savory base flavor. - Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Adds depth and aroma to the dish. - Paprika: 1 teaspoon
Brings a smoky, sweet flavor to the sauce. - Chili Powder (Optional): ½ teaspoon
Adds a subtle heat for those who like a little spice. - Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
Essential for seasoning the dish perfectly. - Marinara Sauce: 2 cups
The base of the sauce, adding a rich tomato flavor. - Beef Broth: ½ cup
Enhances the beefy flavor while loosening the sauce. - Heavy Cream: ¼ cup
Balances the acidity of the marinara and adds creaminess.
For the Topping
- Cheddar Cheese (Shredded): 2 cups
Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy topping. Feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra stretchiness.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Beef Sauce
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Step 3.1: Brown the Beef
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the beef with paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste.
Step 3.2: Add the Liquids
- Stir in the marinara sauce, beef broth, and heavy cream.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef sauce.
- Toss until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the pasta and beef mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden-brown finish, broil the casserole on high for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Tip: Keep a close eye on it during broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan if desired.
Tips for Success
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta prevents it from becoming mushy after baking.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce before combining it with the pasta and adjust the salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
- Even Cheese Coverage: Spread the cheese evenly for consistent gooeyness in every bite.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Vegetable Boost: Add cooked bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Cheese Blend: Mix cheddar with mozzarella, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for a more complex flavor.
- Spicier Version: Increase the chili powder or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Creamier Sauce: Use ½ cup of heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or bake in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 10-15 minutes.
Freezer
- Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month.
- To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal.
- Pair with garlic bread or a warm, crusty loaf for soaking up the sauce.
- Offer extra Parmesan cheese at the table for sprinkling on top.
Why This Recipe Works
This casserole is a true one-dish wonder. The tender pasta absorbs the savory beef sauce, while the melted cheddar cheese creates a comforting, gooey topping. The blend of marinara, beef broth, and cream gives the dish a well-balanced flavor that’s satisfying without being overly heavy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~480
Protein: ~25g
Fat: ~22g
Carbohydrates: ~45g
Fiber: ~3g
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef Pasta Casserole is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with comfort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Plus, its versatility ensures you can adapt it to suit your family’s preferences.
So, grab your ingredients and make this classic casserole—it’s a guaranteed hit every time!