Easy Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a baked beef and pasta casserole. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole is a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing option. Combining seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce, this recipe checks all the boxes for a satisfying meal. The versatility of the ingredients also allows you to tweak the recipe to your liking—whether you want a spicier kick or a healthier version. Let’s dive into this hearty recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to prepare this delicious baked beef and pasta casserole:

1 package penne pasta

Water, as needed for boiling the pasta
2 pounds ground beef
½ tablespoon canola oil (or olive oil)

2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
4 ounces cream cheese (regular or reduced-fat)

1 cup shredded cheddar (half for mixing, half for topping)
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or substitute with chili powder)
1 teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt, then cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Cooking the pasta to al dente ensures that it holds its shape during the baking process and doesn’t become mushy.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the canola oil. Once hot, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking up the meat with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once fully cooked, drain off any excess fat from the skillet to avoid a greasy casserole.

3. Add Seasonings and Creamy Ingredients

Turn the heat down to low. To the browned ground beef, add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper or chili powder (depending on your spice preference). Mix well to evenly coat the beef with the seasonings. Stir in the cream cheese, allowing it to melt into the beef mixture, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese. The cream cheese adds a creamy texture, while the cheddar provides a rich, cheesy flavor that ties the dish together.

4. Combine the Pasta and Beef Mixture

In a large mixing bowl or directly in the skillet (if large enough), combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy beef sauce.

5. Transfer to a Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pour the pasta and beef mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and form a bubbly, golden crust during baking.

6. Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. The short baking time allows the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together without overcooking the pasta. Once the top is bubbly and golden, remove the casserole from the oven.

7. Serve Hot

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed hot, with the cheese still gooey and the pasta warm.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole

Versatile Pasta Choice

While penne is recommended for this recipe, feel free to use other pasta shapes such as rotini, rigatoni, or even macaroni. The ridges on these types of pasta help hold the sauce and cheese, giving you a flavorful bite in every forkful.

Customize the Spice Level

Not a fan of spice? Simply omit the cayenne pepper or chili powder, or adjust the quantity to suit your taste. If you enjoy a spicier dish, increase the cayenne or chili powder, or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor

To boost the nutritional value of the casserole, consider adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions to the beef mixture while it cooks. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the texture and color of the dish. Vegetables like zucchini or spinach also work well and can be stirred in before baking.

Make It Healthier

If you want a lighter version of this dish, use extra-lean ground beef or swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also opt for reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar to lower the fat content without sacrificing flavor.

Prep in Advance

This casserole is ideal for making ahead. You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge, allow it to come to room temperature, and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for busy nights or meal prepping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a baked beef and pasta casserole?

A baked beef and pasta casserole is a hearty dish made with cooked pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s baked until the cheese is bubbly and golden, making it a comforting and filling meal.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use any type of pasta you have on hand, such as rotini, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni. Each will give a slightly different texture but will still work well in the recipe.

3. Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner option in place of ground beef. Simply follow the same instructions for browning the meat.

4. What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you don’t have cream cheese or want to try a different flavor, sour cream, Greek yogurt, or ricotta cheese can be used as substitutes. Each will offer a slightly different texture and flavor, but they all work well in casseroles.

5. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole is great for meal prepping. Assemble it up to the point of baking, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, follow the original instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

6. How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat leftovers, simply place them in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or milk to help loosen the sauce if it has thickened in the fridge.

7. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole can be frozen either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. To freeze after baking, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

8. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely. Adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can enhance the flavor and add some nutritional value to the dish. Simply sauté the vegetables with the ground beef or stir them into the mixture before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This baked beef and pasta casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. The richness of the casserole balances out nicely with a crisp, fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. It’s also a great dish to bring to a potluck or to serve for family gatherings, as it’s filling and easy to prepare in large quantities.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 88mg
Sodium: 25mg
Carbohydrates: 120g
Protein: 40g

This baked beef and pasta casserole is a delicious, family-friendly dish that comes together with simple ingredients and minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need a hearty meal on the table quickly, and the leftovers are just as good. With its customizable options, you can adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste, making it a recipe that you’ll turn to again and again.