Looking for a cozy, hearty dinner that feeds a crowd and leaves everyone satisfied? This Beef and Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food: layers of savory ground beef, tender pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese baked to bubbly perfection. It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers too.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals ahead of a busy week, this casserole delivers on flavor and ease. Everything comes together in one baking dish, and it’s endlessly customizable. Add veggies, spice it up, or keep it simple—you can’t go wrong with this classic.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for a Casserole?

Short-cut pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works best in casseroles because they hold sauce well and bake evenly. Avoid delicate or thin noodles like angel hair, which can become mushy. Cook the pasta until just al dente before mixing it into the casserole so it doesn’t overcook in the oven.

Ingredients for the Beef and Pasta Casserole

1 pound ground beef
2 cups uncooked penne or rotini pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How To Make the Beef and Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with the beef. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and meat sauce. Transfer to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Serving and Storing This Hearty Casserole

Serve your Beef and Pasta Casserole hot, straight from the oven, with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. It’s a meal that satisfies on its own but pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or even a glass of red wine.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook it just to al dente and avoid overbaking. Also, don’t skip draining it well before mixing.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble everything and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative.

What vegetables go well in this casserole?

Chopped spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini blend in perfectly.

Can I use a different cheese?

Definitely! Try cheddar, provolone, or an Italian blend if you want a twist on the classic.

Want More Comforting Casserole Ideas?

If you love this Beef and Pasta Casserole, check out some other delicious dishes to warm your soul:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it easily when cravings strike.

Tried it? Let me know in the comments! Did you add mushrooms, make it spicy, or switch up the cheese? I love seeing your unique spins on these recipes.

Need more weeknight wonders? Browse my Pinterest board for daily favorites: Nina Dishes on Pinterest

Beef and Pasta Casserole

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Beef and Pasta Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner—hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor. With tender pasta, savory beef, rich marinara, and melted cheese all baked to perfection, it’s a comfort food favorite the whole family will love.