If you’re looking for a satisfying and hearty dish that the whole family will love, look no further than our delicious Mince Meat Pasta Bake recipe. This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of flavorful ground meat, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s a simple yet scrumptious dinner option that is guaranteed to become a family favorite in no time. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish!
**Mince Meat Pasta Bake**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz penne pasta, cooked al dente
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Set it aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce in the skillet, stirring well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta.
9. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and extra flavor.
Enjoy this delightful Mince Meat Pasta Bake with a crisp green salad and a side of garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal that will warm hearts and bellies alike. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you crave a comforting and easy-to-make dish that everyone will love. Please share this recipe with your friends and family, as it’s sure to become a beloved addition to your regular dinner rotation. Happy cooking!
