There’s nothing quite like a comforting pasta casserole to bring warmth and deliciousness to your table. This Hearty Pasta Casserole recipe is a perfect option for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Packed with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a cheesy topping, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
**Hearty Pasta Casserole**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, cooked according to package instructions
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta. Top the pasta with half of the beef and tomato mixture, spreading it evenly.
6. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the beef layer.
7. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, beef mixture, and cheeses.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set up slightly.
A hearty pasta casserole like this one is a fantastic dish to share with loved ones, whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The layers of flavors and gooey melted cheese make it a standout comfort food option that will leave everyone feeling satisfied and content. Try adding your own twist to this recipe by incorporating different vegetables or herbs based on your preferences. Enjoy the deliciousness and warmth that this Hearty Pasta Casserole brings to the table!