Cheesy Beef and Tomato Pasta Bake

Servings: 4–6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 cup tomato sauce

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, extra cheesy)

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and sauté 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
Add ground beef, season with oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Make the Tomato Sauce

Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.
Simmer 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.

4. Combine with Pasta

Add cooked pasta to the beef-tomato mixture and stir to combine.
Transfer everything to a greased baking dish.

5. Add Cheese and Bake

Top with mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar (if using).
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Optional: broil 1–2 minutes for a golden crust.

6. Serve

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.