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Cheesy Pasta with Hearty Meat Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, melty cheese with a rich, savory meat sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, providing a satisfying and indulgent experience that’s easy to whip up. The layers of flavor and texture will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that hits all the right notes. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
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- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comforting: A warm hug in a bowl.
- Customizable: Make it your own with different ingredients.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love it!
Ingredients
- 8 oz. elbow macaroni
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
How to Make Cheesy Pasta with Hearty Meat Sauce
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the meat sauce. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer the pasta and meat mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use a mix of cheeses, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different cheese profile.
Easy Variations
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Swap out the elbow macaroni for penne or rotini for a fun twist.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
What to Serve With It
- Garlic bread for a crunchy, buttery side.
- A fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrition.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or cover and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients:
- 8 oz. elbow macaroni
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
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Instructions:
1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the meat sauce. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Transfer the pasta and meat mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes:
Don’t forget to customize with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this cheesy delight!
