Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole

This cheesy ground beef and pasta casserole brings together tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, a savory tomato sauce, sweet corn, and plenty of melted cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, it's the kind of hearty comfort food that makes an ordinary weeknight dinner feel special.

Everything comes together with affordable, familiar ingredients in one family-sized baking dish. Whether you're feeding a crowd, preparing dinner ahead of time, or looking for a satisfying meal with delicious leftovers, this easy beef casserole is a reliable choice.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly: Familiar pasta, beef, and cheese flavors.
• Hearty and filling: A satisfying all-in-one dinner.
• Simple ingredients: Made with affordable pantry staples.
• Golden cheesy topping: Mozzarella and cheddar melt into a delicious crust.
• Great for meal prep: Easy to assemble ahead of time.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American-Inspired
• Method: Oven-Baked

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 12 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 cup frozen sweet corn, thawed
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta for approximately 2 minutes less than the package's recommended al dente time. Drain and set aside. The pasta will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles, until thoroughly browned and no pink remains. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 5: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Stir in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors blend and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Add the Corn and Pasta

Stir the thawed sweet corn into the beef mixture. Add the drained pasta and gently fold everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in sauce.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup cheddar.

Spread the remaining pasta mixture on top, then finish with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese.

Step 8: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

For a lightly browned top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 9: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Beef Pasta Casserole

• Undercook the pasta: It continues softening during baking.
• Use lean ground beef: This prevents the casserole from becoming overly greasy.
• Keep the sauce moist: Add a splash of broth if it becomes too thick before baking.
• Shred your own cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts smoothly.
• Let it rest: A short resting time makes serving easier.

Delicious Recipe Variations

Cheesy Beef and Mushroom Casserole

Add 8 ounces sliced mushrooms when sautéing the onions and peppers.

Spicy Beef Pasta Bake

Add 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Ground Turkey Pasta Casserole

Replace the ground beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter variation.

Extra Cheesy Casserole

Add 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese to the topping for a richer, creamier finish.

What to Serve with Ground Beef Pasta Casserole

• Garlic bread
• Fresh garden salad
• Roasted broccoli
• Steamed green beans
• Caesar salad
• Roasted zucchini

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator

Transfer leftovers to airtight containers and refrigerate within 2 hours. Store for up to 3–4 days.

Freezer

Allow the casserole to cool, then freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

Cover and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven with a splash of water or broth until heated throughout to 165°F (74°C). Individual portions can also be reheated in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow extra baking time if the casserole is cold, and heat until the center reaches 165°F (74°C).

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Elbow macaroni, rotini, penne, and small shells are excellent choices because they hold the sauce well.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey works well with the same seasonings. Cook it thoroughly to 165°F (74°C).

How do I prevent dry pasta casserole?

Use enough tomato sauce, avoid overcooking the pasta before baking, and don't leave the casserole in the oven longer than necessary.

Can I leave out the corn?

Yes. The corn is optional. You can omit it or replace it with diced bell peppers, peas, or another preferred vegetable.

Final Thoughts

This cheesy ground beef and pasta casserole is a comforting baked dinner filled with tender pasta, savory beef, sweet corn, tomato sauce, and golden melted cheese.

With easy preparation and family-friendly flavors, it's a wonderful recipe for busy weeknights, gatherings, and delicious leftovers.

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