Cheesy Baked Pasta with Creamy Meat Sauce is the ultimate comfort food! This dish is rich, cheesy, and sure to warm your heart. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to bring family together around the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and delicious! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying dinner that everyone will love. It’s always a hit when I serve it to my family, and it’s great for leftovers too. Plus, who doesn’t love melted cheese on top of pasta?
How to Make Cheesy Baked Pasta with Creamy Meat Sauce
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne or rigatoni)
- 1 lb ground beef or sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Garlic bread (for serving)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes until combined.
- In a large baking dish, layer the cooked pasta, followed by the meat sauce mixture. Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm with garlic bread on the side.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Pasta with Creamy Meat Sauce
To serve this delicious dish, scoop out generous portions onto plates and add a slice of garlic bread on the side. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra cheese on top if you like! A green salad can also be a nice addition to balance the richness.
How to Store Cheesy Baked Pasta with Creamy Meat Sauce
If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for a quick meal later on. Just thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Cheesy Baked Pasta with Creamy Meat Sauce
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be slightly firm as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Feel free to mix and match cheeses. Add some parmesan for extra flavor!
- For a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
Variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by using mushrooms or lentils instead of meat. Just sauté them like you would with the meat for a tasty alternative!
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta shape you like. Just make sure it’s a type that holds sauce well.
Is it possible to make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I add more veggies?
Definitely! You can add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meat sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
Enjoy making this cheesy delight!