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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake

Few dishes are as comforting as a bubbling pasta bake fresh from the oven. This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake combines tender pasta, savory seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese in one hearty casserole. It is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but satisfying enough to serve when family or friends come over.

The best part is the contrast of textures: the pasta stays tender and saucy underneath while the cheese on top becomes golden, stretchy, and lightly crisp around the edges. It is also an excellent make-ahead meal because the casserole can be assembled earlier in the day and baked when you’re ready.

Why You’ll Love This Pasta Bake

This recipe is built around everyday ingredients and doesn’t require complicated techniques. Ground beef adds richness and protein, while the tomato sauce brings acidity that balances the cheese. A combination of mozzarella and cheddar gives the dish both that classic stretchy cheese pull and a deeper cheesy flavor.

You can also customize it easily. Add bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra vegetables, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.

Ingredients

For approximately 6 servings, you’ll need:

12 ounces (340 g) penne or rotini pasta
1 pound (450 g) ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt, plus more for the pasta water
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 jar (24 ounces/680 g) marinara or tomato pasta sauce
½ cup water or beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, but stop cooking about 2 minutes before the recommended time.

The pasta should still have a little firmness when you bite into it. This is important because it will continue cooking in the oven.

Drain the pasta well and set it aside. Avoid rinsing it because the natural starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula.

Cook for approximately 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through.

If there is a large amount of excess grease in the skillet, carefully drain some of it before continuing.