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Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake Recipe 20 Minute Dinner Idea

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A quick and comforting pasta bake with melty cheese and seasoned ground beef, ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, cheesy meal without the wait.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 12 ounces (340 g) dry pasta (elbow macaroni or penne recommended)
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or blend)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 g) of dry pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 finely diced medium onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add 1 pound (450 g) ground beef to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Break up any large chunks with a spatula.
  4. Stir in 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, salt, black pepper to taste, and optional ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute to let flavors meld.
  5. Pour in 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce. Lower heat to medium and simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the beef sauce. Stir gently to coat evenly.
  7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Sprinkle 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, then 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese.
  8. Bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. For a crustier top, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired and serve.

Notes

If short on time, skip baking and stir cheese into hot pasta mixture on stove for a quicker version. Do not overcook pasta initially; al dente helps it hold up through baking. Use oven mitts when handling cast iron baking dishes. Season pasta water generously. Variations include swapping ground beef for lentils or tofu for vegetarian, adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers, or using different cheeses.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef pasta bake, cheesy pasta bake, quick dinner, weeknight dinner, easy pasta bake, 20 minute dinner, comfort food

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