Beef pasta bake is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table. With tender pasta, savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and a bubbling cheese topping, it’s the ultimate weeknight comfort food. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or looking to impress with minimal effort, this dish is a go-to favorite.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
For the Pasta Bake:
- 400 g (14 oz) penne or rigatoni
- Salt, for pasta water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 500 g (1.1 lb) ground beef
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 500 ml (2 cups) passata or marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 100 ml (1/3 cup) beef stock or water
- 150 g (5 oz) mozzarella, shredded
- 50 g (1.7 oz) parmesan, grated
- 150 ml (2/3 cup) heavy cream or béchamel sauce (optional)
Preparation Time
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Sauce | 15 minutes |
| Baking Time | 20–25 minutes |
| Total Time | ~55 minutes |
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta 1–2 minutes less than package instructions (it will finish in the oven).
- Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in oregano, basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Mix in the tomato paste, passata, and beef stock.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in the cream or béchamel (if using).
3. Assemble the Bake
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta and meat sauce.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan over the top.
4. Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the meat sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add hot sauce or extra chili flakes.
- Creamy Version: Use full béchamel or a cheesy white sauce layer.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in some ricotta or cheddar into the pasta before baking.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Keeps 3–4 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked or fully baked for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake covered at 180°C (350°F) or microwave individual portions.
Nutrition (Per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 500–600 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbs | 45 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
 In Summary
- Â Perfect for meal prep
-  Customizable with veggies and spices Freezer-friendly
- Â Loved by kids and adults alike
Serve with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted veggies for a complete, comforting meal!