There’s something inherently comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta bake fresh out of the oven. Combining tender pasta with flavorful beef and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, this Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining guests, this hearty dish delivers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. Let’s explore how to create this ultimate comfort food with ease.
Ingredients:
- 450 g ground beef
- 300 g pasta (e.g., rigatoni or penne)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 300 ml chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
- 2 tablespoons creamed butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 500 ml milk
- 70 g Parmesan cheese, grated
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 180 g cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella), grated
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil a large pot of salted water until it is vigorously bubbling.
- Add the pasta and cook until it reaches an al dente texture, following the package directions.
- Prepare the Beef Mixture:
- In a large skillet, melt the creamed butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Once the beef is browned, add the chopped tomatoes and sliced leeks. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In another saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of nutmeg, whisking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine and Assemble:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake:
- Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Top with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs, if preferred.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, combining hearty beef, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce into one delicious dish. Easy to prepare and perfect for any gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this ultimate pasta bake, and make any meal feel special.