Savory Beef Pasta Bake: Easy Recipe for Dinner

Looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table? Look no further than the mouthwatering Tasty Beefy Pasta Dinner Bake! This recipe takes basic ingredients like ground beef, macaroni, and cheese and transforms them into a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

I stumbled upon this recipe while searching for affordable and easy-to-make meals for my family, and it quickly became a staple in our dinner rotation. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and gooey melted cheese is a winning trio that never fails to impress.

As this Tasty Beefy Pasta Dinner Bake bakes in the oven, the flavors meld together, creating a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. Whether you’re serving it to picky eaters or new neighbors, this dinner bake is sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a cozy and delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Quick Benefits

• Comforting and filling meal perfect for hectic evenings
• Budget-friendly and uses basic, affordable ingredients
• Versatile recipe adaptable to seasonal variations and personal preferences
• Make-ahead and freezer-friendly for quick and convenient meals

Why You’ll Love This Savory Beef Pasta Bake: Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe

• Comforting and filling: Combines soft noodles, flavorful ground beef, and a rich, cheesy mixture for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy evenings.
• Budget-friendly: Uses basic and affordable ingredients making it a cost-effective option for feeding your family.
• Appeals to all tastes: The mix of smooth sauce, tasty beef, and melty cheese topping makes it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• Simple to make: Easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, perfect for hectic weeknights.
• Versatile: Can be adapted with seasonal vegetables and different toppings to keep the dish exciting and fresh all year round.
• Make-ahead and freezer-friendly: Can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer for up to three months, making it a convenient option for meal planning.
• Generational connection: Evokes memories of family meals and traditional cooking, creating a sense of nostalgia and shared food experiences.
• Enhanced flavors: Worcestershire sauce adds a savory richness that elevates the overall taste of the dish.
• Perfect for entertaining: Can be served in individual portions with customizable toppings, making it an impressive dish for hosting friends or dinner parties.
• Brings people together: Creates a warm and comforting atmosphere at the dinner table, fostering moments that turn ordinary evenings into cherished family gatherings.

Ingredients for Savory Beef Pasta Bake: Easy Recipe for Dinner

Main Ingredients

• 1½ cups (170g) grated cheddar, split into portions
• 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) chopped tomatoes with juice
• 1 tsp mixed Italian herbs
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 cups (240g) dry elbow macaroni
• 1 can (10.5 oz/295g) mushroom soup concentrate
• Salt and pepper, as needed
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 2 tbsp plain butter, for coating the pan
• ½ cup (75g) chopped onion
• ½ tsp smoky paprika (if you want)

Pro Tips for Savory Beef Pasta Bake: Easy Recipe for Dinner

Pro Tip 1: To prevent runny sauce, avoid rinsing the pasta before adding it to the dish. Simply drain it well and transfer it directly into the sauce mixture. This will help the pasta retain its starchiness and better absorb the flavors during baking.

Pro Tip 2: Make your casserole prep more efficient by batch cooking and freezing portions for later. Cook one casserole right away and freeze the rest. To ensure best results, slightly undercook the pasta before freezing, cool the casserole completely, cover it with foil, and label with cooking instructions. This method allows you to have a quick and convenient meal ready to go anytime.

Pro Tip 3: Elevate your Hamburger Supreme Bake for entertaining by setting up a topping station with options like browned onions, crispy bacon bits, and fresh herbs. This interactive element allows guests to customize their dishes, adding extra flavor and texture. Additionally, consider incorporating Worcestershire sauce into the recipe for a depth of savory richness that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

How to Make Savory Beef Pasta Bake: Easy Recipe for Dinner

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

Place ground beef in a wide pan over medium heat and cook until browned. Add onion and garlic, cook until softened, then drain excess grease.

Step 3: Mix Everything

Combine tomatoes, mushroom soup, milk, Italian herbs, smoky paprika (if desired), and 1 cup of cheese. Stir until cheese has melted and mixture is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Add the cooked macaroni to the meat sauce and mix well to coat all the pasta.

Step 5: Get Ready to Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with butter. Spread the pasta mixture evenly in the dish and top with remaining cheese.

Step 6: Cook in Oven

Place the dish in the oven uncovered and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Ready to Eat

Allow the dish to rest briefly before serving. Pair it with a green salad or garlic toast.

Storage Tips

The Tasty Beefy Pasta Dinner Bake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Once the dish has completely cooled after baking, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil before refrigerating. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake the entire dish in the oven until heated through.

If you want to freeze the Hamburger Supreme Bake for future meals, it’s best to slightly undercook the pasta before assembling the dish. Allow the bake to cool completely before covering it well with foil and placing it in the freezer. Remember to label the dish with cooking directions and the date before freezing. The casserole can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw the frozen bake in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in the oven. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy days when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make this dish vegetarian, you can easily swap the ground beef for plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or meatless grounds. These options can mimic the texture and flavor of ground beef while still providing a protein-rich base for the dish.

To make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. There are many gluten-free pasta options available, including those made from rice, quinoa, or lentils. Make sure to cook the gluten-free pasta al dente as it can become mushy if overcooked. Additionally, double-check that the mushroom soup concentrate and any other canned ingredients are gluten-free or opt for gluten-free alternatives to ensure the entire dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Suggestions

Transform the Tasty Beefy Pasta Dinner Bake into an elegant dinner party dish by serving individual portions in ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. Top each portion with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, and freshly chopped herbs for a gourmet touch. Pair it with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete and impressive meal that will wow your guests.

For a seasonal twist, try incorporating fresh produce based on the time of year. In the summer, add garden zucchini and colorful peppers to the bake. Experiment with butternut squash and sage leaves in the fall, frozen veggie mixes and extra cheese for winter, and fresh asparagus and peas in the spring. These seasonal variations will keep the dish exciting and flavorful throughout the year, offering a unique dining experience with each season.

FAQs for Savory Beef Pasta Bake: Easy Recipe for Dinner

Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe if you prefer. Just keep in mind that ground turkey can be leaner than ground beef, so you may want to add a little extra seasoning or oil to compensate for the lower fat content.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?

Yes, you can use a different type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni. Feel free to experiment with penne, rigatoni, or any other pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the type of pasta you choose.

Is it necessary to use the mushroom soup concentrate in this recipe?

The mushroom soup concentrate adds a rich flavor to the dish, but if you don’t have it or prefer not to use it, you can substitute with an equal amount of beef or vegetable broth. This substitution will alter the taste slightly, but the dish will still be delicious.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and freeze it for later. Cook the pasta slightly less than al dente, allow the dish to cool completely, cover it with foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as usual. Remember to adjust the baking time if necessary when cooking from frozen.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Tasty Beefy Pasta Dinner Bake as much as I have. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can come together to create such a comforting and delicious meal that resonates with so many. Whether it’s a regular family dinner or a special gathering with friends, this bake has a way of bringing people together and creating lasting memories around the table.

Experiment with different seasonal variations and toppings to make this Tasty Beefy Pasta Dinner Bake your own signature dish. From garden-fresh veggies to savory additions like Worcestershire sauce, there’s always room to customize and elevate this classic casserole. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a heartwarming meal that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Cheers to creating delicious moments with those you care about through the joy of good food!