Oven Baked Pasta Casserole
A hearty baked pasta casserole combining savory beef, garlic, and rich sauces topped with cheese; perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil.
- In a large frying pan, saute the ground beef, crushed garlic, and olive oil until beef is tender; drain excess fat.
- Add half and half cream, spaghetti sauce, canned brown gravy, grated Parmesan or Romano cheese, oregano, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pan; simmer the mixture.
- Cook the pasta shells or tubes until al dente, then drain.
- Pour the cooked pasta into a 3-quart baking dish.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the pasta and mix carefully to combine.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Top with your favorite shredded cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more half and half or using a creamy pasta sauce instead of spaghetti sauce. If you're out of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can work as substitutes. Fresh herbs can enhance flavor; try adding basil or parsley for freshness. For a punch of flavor, consider incorporating some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
This baked pasta casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving can add a nice touch. For a heartier option, serve alongside some steamed vegetables or a light soup, like Beef Mushroom Noodle Soup, to complement the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Baked Pasta Casserole contains roughly 421 calories, with 16g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (188% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (145% of the Daily Value), and calcium (128% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2171mg per serving (94% 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 use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the pasta shells or tubes with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it cooks al dente before mixing it with the sauce.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or even lentils for a hearty texture. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of gravy and ensure that your sauces are meat-free.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake 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).