Savory Pasta and Meat Bake – Page 2

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until just al dente (it will continue cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Add the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Stir until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

Pour half of the pasta and meat mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Add the remaining pasta and meat mixture, and then top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and has a golden-brown crust on top.

Let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Add Veggies: You can add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
Cheese Variations: Try mixing in some ricotta or cottage cheese for a creamier texture, or switch out the mozzarella for provolone or cheddar.
Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it, then bake when ready to serve.

This Savory Pasta and Meat Bake is cheesy, hearty, and bursting with flavor—perfect for a crowd or a cozy night in! Enjoy!