Pittsburg Pasta
Pittsburg Pasta is a hearty baked pasta dish featuring savory ground beef, melted Provolone and Mozzarella cheeses, and a rich tomato sauce with mushrooms and onions. Its creamy layers and cheesy topping make it perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook ground beef until browned; drain grease. Add chopped onion, garlic salt, spaghetti sauce, and undrained sliced mushrooms. Mix well.
- Pour half of the cooked elbow macaroni into a deep casserole dish. Cover with half of the tomato sauce mixture. Spread half of the sour cream over the sauce.
- Layer all of the Provolone cheese on top. Repeat the layers with remaining macaroni, sauce, and sour cream.
- Finish with Mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Remove cover and bake until the cheese melts and is bubbly. Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some minced garlic along with the onion. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ground beef or a different protein like turkey can be a quick substitute. You can also use different cheese varieties, such as Cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist. This dish is reminiscent of El Rancho Casserole, which also features layered ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This Pittsburg Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. To enhance the meal, serve it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea. For a well-rounded dinner, consider offering a side of steamed vegetables or a classic coleslaw. It's perfect for gatherings or as a comforting family meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings, adding a splash of water to keep it moist, for about 2-3 minutes on high.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pittsburg Pasta contains roughly 449 calories, with 22g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value) and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 675mg per serving (29% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble the layers, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or a mixture of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Additionally, ensure that your spaghetti sauce and cheeses are vegetarian-friendly to maintain the dish's integrity.
What kind of spaghetti sauce should I use?
You can use store-bought spaghetti sauce for convenience, or make your own with crushed tomatoes, herbs, and spices for a fresher taste. Choose a sauce that matches your flavor preference—whether it's a classic marinara or a spicier variety, both will work well in this recipe.
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).