Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake for a Quick Dinner

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Looking for a dinner that’s quick, cheesy, and downright delicious? This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake is your answer! Packed with hearty rotini and juicy ground beef, all smothered in gooey melted cheese, this dish is a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it comes together in one pan, making clean-up a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly flavorful and customizable. Here’s why you’ll crave this dish again and again:

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• Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners, ready in under an hour.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal clean-up since everything bakes in one dish.
• Cheesy Goodness: Who can resist a layer of melted cheese on top?
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this comforting dish.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces rotini pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Make Cheesy Pasta Bake with Ground Meat

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic, ground beef, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and cooked pasta. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the pasta and beef mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use a mix of cheeses for a deeper flavor. Try adding some pepper jack for a spicy kick!
• Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

Easy Variations

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Use whole wheat rotini for a healthier pasta choice.
• Add Italian sausage for a flavor boost.
• Top with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy texture.

What to Serve With It

• A simple green salad for freshness and crunch.
• Garlic bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
• Steamed vegetables for a nutritious side.
• A glass of red wine for the adults!

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of water to keep it moist.

Recipe Card