Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm, gooey casserole packed with tender pasta, flavorful beef, and melted cheese. This Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake checks all the boxes for a satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, it’s a dish that everyone will love. The rich flavors and creamy texture make this bake an instant hit. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and tips to make this recipe the star of your table.

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake

To make this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Pasta

1 pound elbow macaroni or any short pasta: Elbow macaroni works great, but you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or fusilli for a twist.

For the Beef Sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef and sauté the aromatics.
1 pound ground beef: A lean ground beef option works best to avoid excess grease.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Essential for that aromatic base.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Provides a smoky undertone.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Enhances the Italian-inspired flavors.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Adjust based on your preference.
2 cups marinara or pasta sauce: Choose your favorite brand or make your own homemade marinara.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.

For the Cheesy Bake

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: One cup goes into the pasta mixture, and one cup creates that irresistible cheesy topping.
1/2 cup milk: Adds creaminess to the dish.