Why make this recipe
Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the goodness of pasta, meat, and cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or as a make-ahead meal for busy nights. This recipe combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a favorite for both kids and adults.
How to make Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 24 oz jar Rao’s Marinara sauce
- 15 oz jar Rao’s Alfredo sauce
- 16 oz Cellentani pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Dried parsley
Directions:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef.
- Add the chopped onion, salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the beef. Stir well and cook until the beef is browned. Remove any extra grease.
- Stir in the minced garlic.
- Pour the Alfredo sauce and Marinara sauce over the ground beef, then reduce the heat to low.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Pour the meat sauce mixture over the pasta. Stir everything together to combine.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Finish by topping with Parmesan cheese and dried parsley flakes before serving.
How to serve Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake
Serve Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake hot from the oven. It can be a standalone dish, or you can add a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Make sure to have some extra Parmesan cheese on the table for those who enjoy an extra cheesy flavor.
How to store Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake
To store leftovers, let the Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. If freezing, it’s best to freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake it as directed.
Tips to make Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake
- For added flavor, sauté the onion until it’s soft before adding the ground beef.
- You can use any type of pasta you have on hand, but Cellentani holds the sauce well.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- For a creamier texture, add more Alfredo sauce.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. Another option is to use ground turkey or chicken in place of ground beef for a lighter version.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Can I use store-bought sauces?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite store-bought marinara and Alfredo sauces.
How do I know when the dish is done?
It’s done when the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the edges are bubbly.
Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 24 oz Rao’s Marinara sauce
- 15 oz Rao’s Alfredo sauce
- 16 oz Cellentani pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese For garnish
- Dried parsley For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef.
- Add the chopped onion, salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the beef. Stir well and cook until the beef is browned. Remove any extra grease.
- Stir in the minced garlic.
- Pour the Alfredo sauce and Marinara sauce over the ground beef, then reduce the heat to low.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to a greased 9x13 baking dish.
- Pour the meat sauce mixture over the pasta. Stir everything together to combine.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Finish by topping with Parmesan cheese and dried parsley flakes before serving.