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Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole

Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole is a delightful blend of savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and wholesome pasta. It's an easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Perfectly baked until bubbly, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings tonight!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 large zucchini, chopped
  • 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ¾ pound lean ground beef (7% fat or less)
  • 4 cups cooked whole wheat penne (about 2¼ cups dry)
  • 2 cups low fat marinara sauce (2g fat or less)
  • 1 cup shredded part skim mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Skillet
  • Frying Pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Chef's Knife
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375℉. Spray a 2-quart casserole dish with nonstick spray.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, zucchini, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Remove the vegetables to a bowl and set aside.
  3. Add the beef to the pan and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain off any accumulated oil and discard.
  4. Add the cooked vegetables, penne, and sauce to the pan and mix to combine. Spoon the pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle with cheese.
  5. Bake until the cheese is melted and the filling is hot and bubbly, about 20 to 25 minutes. Sprinkle fresh basil on top and serve.

Notes

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for the best results.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
  • Pairing: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Seasonal Variations: Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables to adapt the recipe throughout the year.
  • Cooking Time Adjustment: If you’re making a larger batch, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.