🍝 Italian Baked Pasta Casserole with Meat and Cheese | The Ultimate Comfort Food

If you’re looking for a hearty, family-friendly meal that combines tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, seasoned ground beef, and a golden layer of melted cheese, this Italian Baked Pasta Casserole is the perfect choice. Easy to prepare and packed with comforting flavors, it’s an ideal dinner for cozy evenings.

⏱️ Prep Time: 20 minutes

🔥 Cook Time: 40 minutes

🍽️ Servings: 6

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Pasta

* 400 g (14 oz) penne or ziti pasta

* Water for boiling

* 1 tsp salt

For the Meat Sauce

* 500 g (1 lb) ground beef

* 1 medium onion, finely chopped

* 3 garlic cloves, minced

* 2 tbsp olive oil

* 800 g (28 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce

* 2 tbsp tomato paste

* 1 tsp dried oregano

* 1 tsp dried basil

* ½ tsp black pepper

* 1 tsp salt

* ½ tsp paprika

For the Cheese Topping

* 250 g (9 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded

* 100 g (3.5 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated

* Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook the pasta until just al dente.

3. Drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Sauté the onion until soft and translucent.

3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.

5. Stir in the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes.

6. Season with oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

7. Simmer for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and develops flavor.

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Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).

2. Mix the cooked pasta with most of the meat sauce.

3. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish.

4. Spread the remaining sauce over the top.

5. Cover generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

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Step 4: Bake

1. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

2. For a golden, crispy top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.

3. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious baked pasta with:

* Garlic bread

* Fresh green salad

* Caesar salad

* Roasted vegetables

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💡 Pro Tips

✔️ Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.

✔️ Substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.

✔️ Stir in ½ cup heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.

✔️ Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.

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