Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or non-stick spray. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents the pasta from sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside. Al dente pasta will hold up better during baking and won’t become mushy.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
Once the beef is browned, stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Add paprika, dried oregano, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well to coat the beef and aromatics with the seasonings. Pour in the marinara or pasta sauce and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The sauce should thicken slightly during this time.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef sauce. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the milk, stirring until the pasta is well coated and the cheese begins to melt. The milk adds a creamy texture to the mixture, making the dish even more indulgent.
Step 7: Assemble the Bake
Transfer the pasta mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring even coverage for that golden, bubbly finish.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The bake is ready when the cheese is fully melted, golden brown, and bubbly.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Remove the bake from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese and sauce to settle, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake
- Choose the Right Pasta: Short pasta shapes with ridges, like penne or rigatoni, are excellent for holding onto the sauce and cheese.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Grating cheese yourself ensures a creamy texture.
- Adjust Seasonings: Customize the spice level by adding red pepper flakes or substituting smoked paprika for regular paprika.
- Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, toss in cooked vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the bake up to Step 7 and refrigerate for up to a day. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~400 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
