If you are looking for a comforting, hearty meal that comes together with ease and pleases everyone around the table, this Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. It perfectly blends tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich marinara sauce, all topped with gooey mozzarella and an irresistible golden crust. The combination of creamy sour cream and aromatic herbs makes every bite velvety and flavorful, proving that convenience and deliciousness can absolutely go hand in hand in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but each one plays a vital role in building the richness, texture, and classic flavor of this casserole. Each component is thoughtfully chosen so you can create an unforgettable dish without any fuss.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and the savory base for your casserole.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed to soften.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Brings aromatic warmth that enhances every other ingredient.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses a subtle earthy note to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Offers a hint of bright herbal flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors.
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini): The perfect tender base to soak up all the saucy goodness.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Adds bold tomato flavor and moisture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Becomes melty and stringy for an irresistible texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled atop for a nutty and slightly salty finish.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Gives the casserole a creamy, tangy richness.
- Olive oil for sautéing: Helps soften the onion and garlic without overpowering them.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor as a final touch.
How to Make Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Sauté
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your diced onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens to bring out its natural sweetness. Follow with the minced garlic and sauté for just one more minute—never let garlic burn, or it can turn bitter.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it browns. Cooking it thoroughly until no pink remains is key for both flavor and safety. If there’s excess fat, drain it carefully. Next, season with the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to infuse the meat with savory undertones. Stir in the marinara sauce and let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes to marry the flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cream
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked pasta with half of the shredded mozzarella and the creamy sour cream. This step ensures that the pasta stays moist and luscious, while the cheese begins to work its melty magic.
Step 4: Mix and Assemble
Pour the simmered beef and marinara sauce mixture into the pasta bowl. Stir everything together until it’s perfectly combined—each bite should deliver a balance of meat, sauce, and cheese. Transfer this comforting blend to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing it out evenly for consistent baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly over the top, then grate Parmesan cheese all over for that signature golden crunch. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the casserole bubbles energetically and the cheese has melted into a beautiful, lightly browned crust. Let it cool for a moment before serving.
How to Serve Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh, colorful finish, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley right before serving. The bright green is not just pretty on the eyes—it adds a light herbaceous note that cuts through the richness deliciously. If you like a little extra zing, a dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can also bring a subtle kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but pairing it with crisp, simple sides elevates the meal. Think a vibrant mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette for brightness, or garlic bread for dipping into those meaty tomato juices. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also add a pop of color and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this casserole family-style right from the baking dish for a cozy dinner vibe. Alternatively, plate individual portions topped with a swirl of sour cream or a dollop of fresh ricotta to amp up the creaminess. For a fun twist, scoop the casserole into small oven-safe ramekins to create personal-sized portions that impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, any leftover Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or weeknight dinners when you want to skip cooking from scratch.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well, too! Assemble the dish but don’t bake it, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can remain in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen, adding extra baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, around 15 to 20 minutes, which helps retain the casserole’s texture and reheats the cheese beautifully. Microwaving works in a pinch, but you might lose some of that crisp top layer charm.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne and rotini work wonderfully because their shapes hold sauce nicely, but feel free to substitute with shells, ziti, or even elbow macaroni depending on what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils to keep the protein content while keeping it vegetarian-friendly, and make sure your marinara sauce is free from added meat broths.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly by default. You can add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like it with a little heat.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely. Ingredients like chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions and boost nutrition without overwhelming the flavors.
What type of cheese works best?
Mozzarella provides that classic gooey melt, while Parmesan adds nuttiness. You can also experiment with provolone or cheddar for variations in flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole Recipe. It’s a dish that brings comfort, ease, and family-favorite flavors to your table with every scoop. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for busy nights, this casserole delivers a warm hug in food form. So grab those ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the coziest meals you’ll ever make!
Print
Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for easy weeknight dinners. Featuring ground beef, pasta, and a flavorful marinara sauce, it’s topped with a cheesy blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, baked until golden and bubbly. It’s a family-friendly recipe that can be customized with vegetables and suitable for various dietary needs with simple substitutions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini preferred)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Other
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion for 3 to 4 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release flavors.
- Cook beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Season and simmer: Season the beef with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Mix pasta and cream: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sour cream and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, blending them into a creamy base.
- Combine beef and pasta: Add the beef and marinara sauce mixture to the pasta bowl and stir everything together until evenly combined.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, let it cool slightly, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a boost of dietary fiber.
- Substitute with gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten intolerance.
