Description
A delightful and comforting Cheesy Pasta Casserole that combines pasta, cheese, and savory meat, perfect for kids and family meals.
Ingredients
- Cooked pasta: 3 cups (any shape, such as penne or rotini)
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g)
- Tomato sauce: 2 cups (480 ml)
- Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Mixed vegetables: 1 cup (frozen or fresh, such as peas, carrots, and corn)
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by measuring out the cooked pasta, ground beef, and mixed vegetables.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, adding a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add ground beef, and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef and tomato sauce mixture, and mixed vegetables. Add 1 cup of shredded cheese and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread evenly, and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to customize the pasta shape and vegetables based on your family’s preferences.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Cheesy Pasta Casserole, Kids Meal, Family Dinner, Comfort Food