Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake

Name: Cheesy 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 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Hearty Food Recipes

I love preparing this Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake, especially on busy weeknights. The combination of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey cheese never fails to please my family. It’s a one-dish meal that allows me to spend more quality time with my loved ones while still serving something delicious. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day! Trust me, this comforting dish is a winner that kids and adults alike can't resist.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:14:28.372Z

When I first made this dish, I experimented by adding different spices to the beef and was surprised by how much depth it added to the overall flavor. The key is seasoning the meat well before mixing it with the pasta and cheese. Using a combination of garlic powder and Italian herbs really elevates the dish!

Another tip I learned is to mix in a bit of cream cheese with the regular cheese for an irresistibly creamy texture that binds everything together. It’s a game-changer that takes the bake to the next level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, cheesy goodness that satisfies every craving.
Hearty ground beef brings a comforting depth to the dish.
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes.

      

Perfectly Cooked Pasta

Cooking the penne to the perfect al dente texture is crucial for this Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy during baking, affecting the overall texture. I recommend checking the pasta a minute or two before the package says it’s done to make sure it retains that slight firmness. Drain the pasta well, but do not rinse it, as the starch helps the sauce cling better.

Once your pasta is cooked to the desired texture, it’s essential to combine it with the beef mixture quickly while both are still warm. This way, the flavors meld together and create a more harmonious dish. Work swiftly during this step—the warmth will also help the ricotta cheese soften, making it easier to mix evenly. Leaving the pasta to cool off can lead to a clumpy bake that isn’t as enjoyable.

Layering for Maximum Flavor

When assembling the bake, consider layering the ingredients for an even distribution of flavor throughout the dish. Instead of just dumping everything into the baking dish, you can alternate layers of pasta and meat sauce with the cheeses. This method not only enhances the taste but also allows for a more attractive presentation, giving each scoop a beautiful mix of colors and textures.

As you top the bake with mozzarella and Parmesan, be generous—those golden, bubbly cheese edges are the hallmark of a great pasta bake. If you want an extra crispy topping, consider broiling for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. This technique will give your dish that delightful crunch, creating a pleasing contrast to the creamy filling.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a deliciously cheesy meal!

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Make sure to gather all ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Let’s put this delicious dish together step by step!

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

Mix the cooked pasta with the ground beef mixture, diced tomatoes, and ricotta cheese, ensuring everything is well combined.

Assemble the Bake

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

Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition or swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is quite flexible when it comes to ingredients. If you’re looking to lighten it up, lean ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for the ground beef, offering similar flavor with less fat. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils, which not only adds protein but also contributes an earthy flavor to the dish.

For families with dietary restrictions, gluten-free pasta can easily be used in place of traditional penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta varieties often require shorter cooking times. With these substitutions, you can maintain the essence of the Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake while catering to different dietary needs.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of this Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake tend to be even more flavorful as the ingredients have time to meld together. To store, allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then cover it tightly and place it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the bake before or after baking. If freezing before, make sure to wrap it securely in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

When it comes time to reheat, a simple way to do so is by placing covered leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–30 minutes, or until warmed through. If you prefer the microwave, do so in intervals to ensure even heating; just be mindful that this can sometimes result in softer pasta. A sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating can really revive the dish, making it feel fresh and indulgent again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container.

→ What other cheeses could I use?

You can use cheddar, gouda, or even a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor!

→ How long should I bake it if it's frozen?

If baking from frozen, increase the baking time to about 40-50 minutes, covering the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes.