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Homemade Ground Beef Casserole

Homemade Ground Beef Casserole that's Pure Comfort in a Dish

Enjoy a heartwarming Homemade Ground Beef Casserole that combines tender penne pasta, flavorful ground beef, rich marinara, and gooey cheddar cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta Cook al dente to prevent it from getting mushy.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be substituted with canola or vegetable oil if desired.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Use 85/15 for flavor and moisture.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely diced, sauté until softened.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced, adds aromatic depth.
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Rao's is a top choice for quality.
  • to taste Salt Essential seasoning.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential seasoning.
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Shredded, can substitute with mozzarella.
Optional Topping
  • Fresh Basil or Parsley Adds fresh flavor and vibrant color.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add the penne pasta, and cook for 7 to 8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and ground beef, and cook for about 10 minutes.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well. Allow the mixture to simmer for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Fold the drained penne pasta into the beef and marinara mixture. Transfer to the greased baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and beef mixture.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish is customizable—try ground turkey or different cheeses for variety.

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