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Pasta Bake

By Chef Melanie November 11, 2025
  • pasta
  • bake
  • ground beef
  • family dinner
  • comfort food
Difficulty Beginner
Servings 1
Estimated Cost $15.06
Pasta Bake

A simple, comforting pasta bake with ground beef, elbow noodles, and melted cheese. This budget-friendly family favorite is perfect for busy weeknights and always satisfies!

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 375°F.

  2. 2

    Cook elbow noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. 3

    In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, adding chopped onion if using. Cook until beef is fully browned and onion is tender.

  4. 4

    Drain excess fat from the beef.

  5. 5

    In a 2-quart baking dish, combine the cooked noodles, browned ground beef, pasta sauce, parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.

  6. 6

    Mix everything together until well combined.

  7. 7

    Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

  8. 8

    Bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

  9. 9

    Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the dish to set.

  10. 10

    **Pro Tip:** This recipe is very flexible - adjust the amount of pasta sauce based on how saucy your family likes it!