Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying pasta bake, this Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is the perfect dish! Loaded with seasoned ground beef, marinara sauce, melty cheese, and tender pasta, this easy one-pan dinner is perfect for a quick weeknight meal, potluck, or meal prep.

Whether you’re craving homemade comfort food or looking for a family-friendly casserole, this dish will be a hit. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and packed with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Quick & Easy – Simple steps, ready in under 1 hour.
✔️ Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable pantry staples.
✔️ Ultra-Cheesy & Flavorful – Melty cheese in every bite.
✔️ Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly – Perfect for meal prepping.
✔️ Customizable – Add veggies, spices, or different cheeses.

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake

For the Pasta Bake:

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti work best)
1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (or marinara sauce)
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
½ teaspoon paprika

For the Cheesy Topping:

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream or ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

Optional Add-Ins:

½ cup chopped bell peppers or mushrooms (for added veggies)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for a deeper flavor)
1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity in tomatoes)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions).
Drain and set aside. Do not overcook, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Sauce

Sauté Onions & Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sauté onions for 2 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Brown the Ground Beef: Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes).
Season the Beef: Stir in salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes. Stir well.
Simmer the Sauce: Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 3: Assemble the Pasta Bake

Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
Mix Pasta & Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and beef sauce. If using, stir in heavy cream or ricotta for extra creaminess.
Layer in Baking Dish: Spread half the pasta mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add Cheese Layers: Sprinkle with half the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
Repeat Layers: Add the remaining pasta and top with the rest of the cheese.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover & Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Uncover & Melt Cheese: Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Let It Rest: Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

🔹 Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
🔹 Fresh Green Salad – Lightens up the meal.
🔹 Steamed Veggies – Adds extra nutrition.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator:

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake

✅ Use Al Dente Pasta – Overcooked pasta will turn mushy.
✅ Let the Sauce Simmer – Enhances the depth of flavor.
✅ Mix Different Cheeses – A blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan gives the best results.
✅ Customize the Recipe – Add veggies, spice, or swap beef for turkey.
✅ Let It Rest Before Serving – This helps the layers set and prevents a runny dish.

FAQs – Everything You Need to Know

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?

Yes! Swap ground turkey for a lighter option without losing flavor.

How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne, or jalapeños for a spicy kick!

Can I Make This Pasta Bake Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the Best Pasta to Use?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or ziti holds sauce best.

Variations of Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake

🔥 Mexican-Style Pasta Bake: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn.
🧀 Extra Cheesy Version: Double the cheese for ultra-gooey goodness.
🌿 Vegetarian Version: Swap beef for mushrooms or lentils.
🍗 Chicken Pasta Bake: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef.

Final Thoughts – Why This Recipe is a Must-Try!

✔️ Family-Friendly & Comforting – Kids and adults love it.
✔️ Easy to Make & Great for Leftovers – Perfect meal prep dish.
✔️ Packed with Flavor & Extra Cheesy – Every bite is delicious.
✔️ Customizable for Different Diets – Easily adaptable to your preferences.

This Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is a delicious, cheesy, and hearty casserole that will quickly become a favorite in your home. Try it tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right from your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe