Easy Deep Dish Pasta
A hearty deep dish pasta casserole with savory meat, rich cheeses, and flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck in a skillet.
- Add crushed garlic, chopped onions, spaghetti sauce, stewed tomatoes, and mushrooms; mix well.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Cook the macaroni shells until tender, then rinse in cold water.
- Layer cooked macaroni, meat sauce, sour cream, Provolone cheese, and Mozzarella cheese in a deep dish casserole.
- Bake until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have Provolone cheese, mozzarella can be used exclusively. To save time, use pre-cooked macaroni shells. Pair with a simple salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the deep dish pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top can enhance the presentation and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Peas 'N Bread for a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Deep Dish Pasta contains roughly 845 calories, with 50g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (100% of the Daily Value), calcium (91% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1221mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish a day in advance. Simply assemble it in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Provolone and Mozzarella are great choices, you can substitute with other cheeses like cheddar for a sharper flavor or Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. Just ensure the cheese melts well.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).