Ground Beef And Pasta Bake With Cheese

Name: Ground Beef And Pasta Bake With Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Bakes & Treats

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Pasta Bake with Cheese for my family. Every time I prepare this dish, the house fills with an irresistible aroma that makes everyone eager to gather around the table. This recipe combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a gooey layer of cheese that creates a comfort food classic. I appreciate its simplicity, as it comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Plus, who can resist that cheesy crust? It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-02-24T02:57:36.291Z

As I experimented with different varieties of pasta and sauces, I discovered that using a combination of marinara and creamy cheese sauce really elevates this dish. One key to success is to slightly undercook the pasta before baking, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the sauce as it finishes in the oven. This makes each bite perfectly saucy without becoming mushy.

On one occasion, I topped the bake with a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving. The burst of color and the added freshness enhanced the comfort of the dish and impressed my guests. It’s these little touches that make a difference, turning a simple meal into something memorable!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich flavors from beef combined with tangy marinara sauce
Melting cheese that adds gooey goodness to every bite
Perfectly baked pasta that absorbs all the delicious flavors

Technique Tips for Perfect Pasta Bake

To achieve the best texture for your Ground Beef and Pasta Bake, ensure that you cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite, as the pasta will continue to soften while baking. Overcooking at this stage can result in mushy pasta, leading to a less than desirable final dish. After draining, a quick rinse with cold water can help stop the cooking process if you're preparing it ahead of time.

When browning the ground beef, don’t rush the process. Cook it over medium heat and allow it to develop a deep brown color, which enhances the flavor profile of the dish. If you find that your pan is getting too crowded, consider cooking the beef in smaller batches. This prevents steaming and ensures a uniform browning. Remember to drain off excess fat, as too much can make the dish greasy.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Each ingredient in this pasta bake serves a specific role: the ground beef provides a savory base, while the cream cheese adds richness and creaminess that balances the acidity of the marinara sauce. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef; just be mindful that these lean meats might require a little extra seasoning to enhance their flavor.

The cheeses are crucial for creating that gooey, melty texture we all love. If you're out of mozzarella, shredded provolone or a mixture of different cheeses can work great as alternatives. For a twist, consider adding a sprinkle of cheddar for an extra sharpness or even a dash of smoked cheese for a unique flavor profile. Always remember to reserve some cheese for a final sprinkle on top—it helps create that beautiful, golden crust.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
1 lb ground beef
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are ready before starting the preparation. This will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the marinara sauce, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Mix Pasta with Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and sauce mixture. Stir until evenly coated.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Pasta Bake!

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture. You can also use different types of pasta, such as penne or rotini, for a fun twist!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef and Pasta Bake is a fantastic candidate for make-ahead preparations. You can assemble the entire dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you're putting it in the oven straight from the fridge.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This dish also freezes well. You can freeze the unbaked pasta bake for up to three months—just remember to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed or until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

To serve this comforting pasta bake, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully and adds a refreshing crunch.

For an extra boost of flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving. Not only does it elevate the presentation, but it also adds a fresh note that contrasts the hearty characteristics of the bake. You can even serve it with crusty garlic bread for a complete family meal that everyone will enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it the next day.

→ Can I substitute the ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken also work great as a lighter alternative.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

→ Is it possible to freeze this dish?

Yes! You can freeze it before baking. Just thaw and bake as directed when ready to enjoy.