Discover the rich flavors of Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole, a comforting, hearty dish perfect for easy family dinners that bring everyone to the table. This casserole masterfully combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey layers of melted cheese, creating a satisfying meal that’s both filling and delicious. Whether you’re a busy cook or simply craving a crowd-pleaser, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures to savor every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless comfort: Combines pantry staples into a warm, satisfying dinner with minimal prep.
Layered goodness: Alternating layers of pasta, beef, and cheese deliver flavor in every mouthful.
Family-friendly taste: Loved by kids and adults alike, making dinner time stress-free.
Flexible to customize: Easy to adjust ingredients to suit personal preferences or dietary needs.
Perfect for leftovers: Reheats beautifully, maintaining its cheesy, hearty texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping ingredients simple, each one plays a crucial role in building the dish’s bold flavors, rich texture, and inviting appearance. Here’s everything you’ll need for your Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole:

Ground beef: Provides a savory, protein-packed base that’s flavorful and easy to brown.
Pasta (penne or rigatoni): Holds sauce and cheese well, adding satisfying bite and texture.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly, creating gooey layers that bind the casserole.
Cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and depth of flavor, balancing the creaminess.
Tomato sauce: Introduces a tangy, slightly sweet element that complements the beef.
Onion and garlic: Infuse the beef mixture with aromatic and savory notes.
Italian seasoning: Brings a bright herbal dimension with oregano, basil, and thyme.
Salt and pepper: Enhance and round out all the flavors perfectly.
Olive oil: Helps sauté vegetables and adds a subtle richness.

Variations for Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, inviting you to make it your own. Whether you want to sneak in more veggies, accommodate dietary needs, or explore flavors, these variations are simple to tweak for your perfect comfort meal.

Vegetable boost: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra nutrients.
Spicy twist: Stir in red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to bring a subtle heat.
Low-carb option: Swap pasta for spiralized zucchini or cauliflower “rice” for a lighter version.
Cheese swap: Use pepper jack or provolone for a different cheesy flair.
Make it vegetarian: Replace ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles to keep the texture robust.

Why Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole Wins

How to Make Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Begin by boiling the pasta until it’s just al dente. It’s important not to overcook because the pasta will continue cooking in the casserole. Drain and set aside, lightly tossing with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant. Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and crumbly, draining any excess fat before stirring in the tomato sauce. Let it simmer to meld the flavors.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

In a greased casserole dish, begin by spreading a layer of cooked pasta, followed by a generous layer of the ground beef mixture. Sprinkle a mix of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top. Repeat the layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a thick cheesy layer on top.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the layers set.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole

Use quality cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded versions with anti-caking agents.
Don’t skip resting: Letting the casserole sit after baking helps it hold together when sliced.
Brown the beef well: Browning adds depth, so take time to develop that rich color and flavor.
Control moisture: Drain excess liquid from beef or sauce to avoid a soggy casserole.
Add fresh herbs: A light sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds brightness before serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes, or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can elevate the presentation and flavor effortlessly.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread to complement the hearty casserole without overshadowing it.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in mini ramekins for a charming touch or layer the casserole with colorful vegetables to create eye-catching cross-sections when sliced.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen after a day, making it even tastier the next time you enjoy it.

Freezing

Wrap the casserole tightly or portion it out before freezing for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes to retain moisture and melt any cheese that has firmed up.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the day before and refrigerate it, then bake it fresh the following day for a convenient meal.

What pasta works best for this casserole?

Penne, rigatoni, or any tubular pasta works great because they hold sauce and cheese in every bite, creating a better texture.

How do I prevent the casserole from being too watery?

Be sure to drain excess fat from the beef and avoid over-saucing the pasta to keep the casserole firm and not soggy.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and will work well, though you may want to add a bit more seasoning for extra flavor.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Definitely! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, and double-check that your tomato sauce and seasonings are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a straightforward, hearty meal that brings cheesy, meaty comfort to your dinner table, the Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole is a winner every time. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug and effortlessly becomes a family favorite, inviting you to enjoy the best of home-cooked goodness with ease. Give it a try tonight—you might just find your new go-to meal.

Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole

Print Recipe

Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish combining savory ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey layers of melted cheese. Perfect for easy family dinners, this casserole delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures with minimal prep, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s both filling and delicious.

Author: Elena
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free pasta substitution)

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta

12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
1 tbsp olive oil (for tossing pasta)

Cheese

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Sauce and Seasoning

1 ½ cups tomato sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta: Begin by boiling the pasta until it is just al dente. Avoid overcooking as the pasta will continue cooking in the casserole. Drain well and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef Mixture: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the tomato sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Layer the Casserole: Grease a casserole dish lightly. Start by spreading a layer of cooked pasta evenly on the bottom. Next, add a generous layer of the ground beef mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle a blend of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the beef. Repeat these layers—pasta, beef mixture, cheese—until all ingredients are used, finishing with a thick cheesy layer on top.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let rest for several minutes to allow the layers to set before serving.

Notes

Use quality cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties with anti-caking agents.
Don’t skip resting: Let the casserole sit after baking to help it hold together when sliced.
Brown the beef well: Browning adds deeper flavor and richer color.
Control moisture: Drain any excess liquid from the beef or sauce to avoid sogginess.
Add fresh herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top before serving for added brightness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0.3 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 28 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: casserole, ground beef, cheesy pasta, baked pasta, family dinner, comfort food, layered casserole