Ground Beef And Cheddar Pasta Bake

Name: Ground Beef And Cheddar Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 12 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple & Tasty

I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Cheddar Pasta Bake for family gatherings! It’s a hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of tender ground beef and creamy cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The melting cheese on top gives it a delightful finish, making it both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone seems to enjoy, including the kids!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:25:37.420Z

When I first tried making this Ground Beef and Cheddar Pasta Bake, I wasn’t sure how well all the ingredients would come together. However, after experimenting with different cheeses, I found that sharp cheddar adds a fantastic depth of flavor that perfectly complements the beef. I also learned that a sprinkle of Italian herbs elevates the dish, making it even more savory.

This dish has become a staple in my household, particularly on chilly nights. The best tip I can offer is to not overcook the pasta during the boiling stage. It should be slightly underdone before baking, allowing it to absorb all the amazing flavors from the sauce and cheese as it cooks in the oven!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and savory combination of beef and cheese
Comforting and satisfying for the whole family
Easy to prepare with simple ingredients

The Role of Beef and Cheese

The ground beef in this recipe provides a hearty base, delivering a rich, savory flavor that complements the pasta beautifully. Choosing a quality ground beef, preferably 80/20, ensures the dish remains juicy and flavorful, as leaner beef can lead to a drier outcome. As you brown the beef, the Maillard reaction creates a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish, making it imperative not to rush this step.

Sharp cheddar cheese is a star ingredient, not just for its creamy melt but also for its tangy flavor, which contrasts well with the sweetness of the tomato sauce. If you'd like to experiment with flavors, consider mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack for a creamier texture or a bit of parmesan for extra nuttiness. Just ensure any substitutes melt well to maintain that delightful cheesy layer on top.

Pasta and Cooking Tips

When boiling the elbow macaroni, it's crucial to follow the package instructions closely for the best texture. Aim for al dente, which means the pasta should be firm to the bite but not crunchy. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when baked. During the cooking process, you may want to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and don’t forget to reserve a bit of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Combining the cooked ingredients in a large mixing bowl is essential for even distribution of flavors. Ensure the pasta is not too hot when mixing in with the beef and cheese to avoid any unwanted clumping. If you find the mixture too thick, you can always add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to help it blend together smoothly before transferring it to the baking dish.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to prepare this delicious pasta bake!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
12 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Make sure you have everything ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ground Beef and Cheddar Pasta Bake!

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with chopped onion and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.

Boil the Pasta

While the beef is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, cooked pasta, and tomato sauce. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, mixing well to ensure even distribution.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious and comforting casserole with your family!

Once done, let the dish cool slightly before diving in!

Pro Tips

To enhance flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the ground beef while cooking. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a cheesier experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Cheddar Pasta Bake is an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare the whole dish up to the baking stage a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge while preheating the oven, allowing it to come to room temperature to ensure even cooking. Baking from cold may increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.

For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze the assembled dish before baking for up to three months. Just remember to label and date the container. When you're ready to eat, thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight and bake, following normal instructions.

Variations and Customization

If you're looking to customize the dish, consider incorporating veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté them with the beef at the beginning for optimal melding of flavors. Alternatively, experimenting with different pasta shapes, such as penne or rotini, can provide a fun twist while adding unique textures to each bite.

For a spicier kick, try mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños with the beef. If you're aiming for a healthier version, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef; just adjust the cooking time slightly, as leaner proteins can dry out more quickly than beef. Ensure you add extra moisture, perhaps through the tomato sauce or by incorporating a bit of broth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute elbow macaroni with penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta bake pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.