Ground Beef Pasta Bake

Name: Ground Beef Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Deliciously cheesy and comforting, this Ground Beef Pasta Bake is a family favorite that combines hearty flavors with the joy of baked pasta.

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2025-12-24T12:54:35.151Z

This Ground Beef Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. It's a delightful mix of pasta, beef, and gooey cheese that will satisfy everyone at the table.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling for a satisfying meal
Cheesy goodness that appeals to all ages
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or sauces

      

A Comforting Classic

Ground Beef Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. This recipe marries the flavors of savory ground beef with rich marinara sauce, creating a satisfying base for the pasta. The combination of textures with the soft pasta and melty cheese makes each bite a delightful experience. It's the perfect meal for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty and filling.

Not only is this dish comforting, but it's also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings with friends and family. The simplicity of the recipe ensures that even novice cooks can whip up this delightful bake without any hassle.

Customization at Its Best

One of the best aspects of the Ground Beef Pasta Bake is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your family's taste preferences. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini, to boost the nutrition and flavor. You can also switch up the cheese varieties, using cheddar or gouda for a different twist on the classic flavors.

Moreover, this recipe allows for adjustments in the sauce. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara or using a spicy sausage instead of ground beef. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a fun canvas for your culinary creativity.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Ground Beef Pasta Bake is not only a fantastic dinner option but also an excellent choice for meal prep. Making a large batch at once ensures you have hearty, homemade meals ready to go throughout the week. Simply portion out the bake into individual servings, and you’ll have quick lunches or dinners that can be easily reheated in the microwave or oven.

The leftovers taste just as good, if not better, the next day as the flavors meld together. This makes it a great option for busy families, allowing you to save time and effort while still enjoying a delicious, homemade meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, beef mixture, and ricotta cheese until well combined.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef Pasta Bake, consider serving it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta bake beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch to your meal. Garlic bread, on the other hand, provides a perfect vehicle for soaking up any extra sauce, ensuring you don’t miss out on any delicious flavors.

If you want to impress your guests further, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an aromatic freshness that brightens the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store your Ground Beef Pasta Bake, allow it to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. Wrap individual servings in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. For best results, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. Then, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave for a quick meal. This ensures that the pasta stays tender, and the cheese remains gooey and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or fusilli.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta bake and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled pasta bake. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this hearty pasta bake.