By This Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole captures the essence of meals|beef & lamb while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
1 package penne pasta
Water, as needed
2 pounds ground beef
½ tablespoon canola oil
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
4 ounces cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or chili powder)
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
How To Make Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole
Cook the pasta following the directions on the package and drain it
Meanwhile you can cook the meat in the oil in a skillet until cooked through
Drain off any excess fat
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F
Turn the heat down on the stove and mix in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper or chili powder, cream cheese, and half the shredded cheddar
Combine the pasta with the beef mixture
Pour this into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top
Bake for 15 minutes
Serve hot
PREPARATION STEPS
Cook the pasta following the directions on the package and drain it
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F
Combine the pasta with the beef mixture
Pour this into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish
Bake for 15 minutes
Serve hot
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 65 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~450 kcal | Difficulty: Medium
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
