Ultimate Cheesy Pasta Casserole: Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe

When you need a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together quickly, this cheesy pasta casserole delivers on all fronts. Combining tender pasta, rich cheese sauce, and savory ground beef, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a memorable meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate solution for when hunger strikes and time is limited.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: While pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 4: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture.

Step 5: Stir in ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese until well combined.

Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Step 7: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for the last 2 minutes for a golden-brown crust if desired.

Step 8: Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if using.

Expert Tips

• Pasta Choice: Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best as they hold the sauce well
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese combinations like provolone, fontina, or Monterey Jack
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake
• Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition
• Crispy Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese for added crunch

FAQs

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or add extra vegetables like zucchini and eggplant.

How long does it keep?
Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

What sides go well with this dish?
Serve with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Ultimate Cheesy Pasta Casserole: Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe

This comforting cheesy pasta casserole combines tender pasta, rich cheese sauce, and savory ground beef for a crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy families, it transforms everyday ingredients into a memorable meal that satisfies hunger quickly.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 520

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Method

 

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for the last 2 minutes for a golden-brown crust if desired.
8. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if using.

Notes

Short pasta like penne works best for holding sauce. Can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated. Add breadcrumbs mixed with butter for crispy topping. Substitute vegetables for vegetarian version.