Indulge in the comforting embrace of a hearty meal with our Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole recipe. This classic dish combines tender beef, flavorful spices, creamy cheese, and wholesome pasta to create a satisfying one-pan meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply craving a cozy dinner, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Join us as we dive into the steps to create this delicious dish, from browning the beef to baking it to perfection in the oven. Get ready to delight your taste buds and warm your soul with the comforting flavors of Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Beef
- 2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 lb Penne pasta
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Chili powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Canola oil
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Cream cheese
- 1 cup Water
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, chili powder, and salt to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
- In the meantime, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add the cooked penne pasta on top of the beef mixture in the baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Dollop the cream cheese evenly over the top of the pasta and beef mixture.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Pour the water over the entire casserole, ensuring that it is evenly distributed.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize the spices in this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add more chili powder for a spicier casserole or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition. Sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would all be delicious additions.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese before baking the casserole.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or leftover cooked beef instead of cooking it from raw.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions: For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications you can make to create a keto-friendly version of Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole:
- Substitute the penne pasta with a low-carb pasta alternative such as shirataki noodles or zucchini noodles.
- Replace the cream cheese with full-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream to reduce the carbohydrate content of the dish.
- Use a combination of cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese for a lower-carb cheese topping.
- Omit the onions and use garlic powder instead of onion powder to further reduce the carbohydrate content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole for future meals. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer individual portions to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Label the containers with the date and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? A: Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef in this recipe. Simply cook the ground turkey or chicken as directed in place of the beef.
In conclusion, Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely dinners at home. With its hearty combination of tender beef, savory spices, and creamy cheese, this casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, with our keto and low-carb adaptations, you can enjoy all the comfort of this classic dish while staying true to your dietary goals. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole – it’s a meal the whole family will love!
