Easy Ground Beef Pasta Bake

Easy Ground Beef Pasta Bake

Craving a comforting meal that’s both simple to prepare and satisfying to eat? Look no further than this Easy Ground Beef Pasta Bake. This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, combining robust flavors with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Method

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutritious Value and Pairings

This Ground Beef Pasta Bake is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of macronutrients. The ground beef offers a rich source of protein and iron, while the cheese adds calcium and healthy fats. The pasta provides carbohydrates that will energize you, and if you opt for whole grain pasta, additional fiber too.

To enhance the meal’s nutritional profile, consider pairing this dish with a fresh green salad. A simple arugula or spinach salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta bake perfectly.

For drinks, a glass of red wine like a Chianti or a Merlot pairs excellently with the savory flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime for a refreshing contrast.

This Ground Beef Pasta Bake is truly a meal that brings comfort and joy with every bite, making it an excellent addition to your recipe repertoire.