Grandma’s Ultimate Baked Stellini Pasta Bake — Creamy, Cheesy, and Packed with Hearty Meat Sauce

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Grandma’s Ultimate Baked Stellini Pasta Bake — Creamy, Cheesy, and Packed with Hearty Meat Sauce

Some recipes don’t just feed the body—they warm the heart. Grandma’s Ultimate Baked Stellini Pasta Bake is one of those timeless comfort dishes that feels like a hug straight from the oven. Made with tiny star-shaped stellini pasta, a rich and savory meat sauce, and layers of creamy, melty cheese, this baked pasta is simple, satisfying, and deeply nostalgic. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, no matter the occasion.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or family gatherings. The small stellini pasta absorbs the sauce beautifully, creating a soft, spoonable texture that’s both comforting and indulgent. Let’s walk through the process step by step so you can recreate this classic, grandma-approved favorite in your own kitchen.

What Makes This Pasta Bake Special

Stellini pasta: These tiny star-shaped pastas cook quickly and hold onto sauce incredibly well.
Hearty meat sauce: Slow-simmered and deeply flavorful, forming the backbone of the dish.
Creamy cheese layers: A combination of cheeses adds richness and that irresistible baked top.
Oven-baked perfection: Baking brings everything together into a golden, bubbly casserole.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the pasta and sauce:

Stellini pasta
Ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage)
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
Tomato paste
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Italian seasoning or dried oregano and basil

For the creamy, cheesy layer:

Ricotta cheese or cream cheese
Heavy cream or milk
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: an egg (for extra structure)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Cook the Stellini Pasta

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the stellini pasta and cook it until just al dente—slightly firm to the bite. Because the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, avoid overcooking it. Drain and set aside.