Hearty Beef and Pasta Casserole
Picture this: a comforting dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked to perfection. That’s what this hearty beef and pasta casserole is all about. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve something that everyone will love without spending hours in the kitchen.
This recipe is a nostalgic nod to classic comfort food, delivering flavors that remind you of childhood meals. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a cozy evening, this dish promises satisfaction with every bite.
You’ll be surprised at how simple it is to whip up this dish with just a few pantry staples. The blend of savory beef, tender pasta, and zesty sauce creates a taste that’s both familiar and delightful.
Comforting Flavors of Home
The beef and pasta casserole embodies the essence of comfort food, bringing back memories of family dinners and warm kitchens. The combination of tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and rich tomato sauce creates a dish that feels like a warm embrace.
This meal not only satisfies hunger but also offers a sense of nostalgia. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the well-seasoned beef to the gooey mozzarella on top, making it a dish everyone can appreciate.
Simple Ingredients, Satisfying Results
Creating this casserole requires just a handful of pantry staples, making it accessible for weekday cooking. The key ingredients include ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato sauce, all of which meld together beautifully during the baking process.
Utilizing Italian seasoning adds depth to the dish, while fresh garlic and onion enhance the overall aroma and flavor. It’s a delightful way to make use of what’s already in your kitchen without the need for extensive preparation.
Baking to Perfection
Once all the ingredients are combined, the magic happens in the oven. Baking this casserole allows the flavors to intensify, and the cheese to melt into a rich, golden layer on top.
Covering the dish for part of the baking time ensures that everything cooks evenly, leading to a tender texture throughout. The final moments without a cover create that desirable bubbly cheese finish, making the casserole as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be served straight from the oven, allowing guests to help themselves to a generous portion. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only brightens the appearance but also adds a hint of freshness to each bite.
Consider pairing the casserole with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. The balance of flavors and textures creates a satisfying dining experience that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
A Cozy Kitchen Experience
The setting in which this casserole is enjoyed adds to its charm. Picture a cozy kitchen, the aroma wafting through the air, and laughter echoing around the table as family and friends gather to share a meal.
This dish is designed for those moments, offering warmth and connection. It invites conversation and togetherness, making it more than just food, but a cherished experience.
Nutritional Insights
While indulgent, this beef and pasta casserole also offers a hearty serving of nutrients. With a balance of protein from the beef and carbohydrates from the pasta, it fuels both body and soul.
Each serving contains a satisfying amount of calories, making it an appropriate choice for a fulfilling meal without overindulgence. It’s a practical option for busy families looking to enjoy delicious, homemade comfort food.
Classic Beef and Pasta Dish
This beef and pasta casserole features tender elbow macaroni mixed with seasoned ground beef, enveloped in a flavorful tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese. It’s a filling, delicious meal that warms both the heart and the stomach.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the uncooked macaroni and mix until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Cheese: Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty beef and pasta casserole!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
