Italian Beef Pasta Bake
A comforting and hearty dish featuring slow-cooked ground beef, al dente pasta shells, and tangy tomato sauce, all topped with a golden layer of melted cheese. This flavorful baked pasta is perfect for family dinners or potlucks and will leave everyone craving for more.
ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 lb pasta shells, cooked and drained
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
steps
- 1.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- 3.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- 4.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 5.
In a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the cooked pasta shells.
- 6.
Pour half of the tomato and ground beef sauce over the pasta.
- 7.
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
- 8.
Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauce, and cheeses.
- 9.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- 10.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- 11.
Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, then serve and enjoy!
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