Introduction
Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together the richness of ground beef, the delightful texture of pasta, and the gooey goodness of melted cheese. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this dish is not only satisfying but also versatile, allowing for various adaptations based on your taste preferences.
### Ingredients
– **Pasta:**
– 12 oz egg noodles or any pasta of choice
– **Meat Sauce:**
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– **Cheese Layer:**
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– **Toppings:**
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
### Instructions
1. **Cook the Pasta:**
– Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Meat Sauce:**
– In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
– Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
– Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
3. **Combine Pasta and Sauce:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Mix well.
4. **Layer the Bake:**
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top.
– Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining cheese and Parmesan.
5. **Bake:**
– Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
### History
Pasta bakes have a rich history, originating from Italian cuisine, where pasta dishes have been a staple for centuries. The combination of pasta with meat, tomato sauce, and cheese reflects the traditional Italian practice of using available ingredients to create hearty meals. Over time, variations emerged across regions, especially in the United States, where the casserole style became popular.
### Benefits
– **Nutritional Value:** This dish provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. The inclusion of vegetables can further enhance its nutritional profile.
– **Satiating:** High in protein and fiber, making it satisfying and great for family meals.
– **Versatile:** Can be adapted with different meats, cheeses, or vegetables to suit dietary preferences.
### Nutritional Information (per serving)
– Calories: Approximately 450
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 3g
### Conclusion
Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together. Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to fit any palate. Whether you’re cooking for a family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!
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Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake!
