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CHEESY GROUND BEEF PASTA BAKE centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Yesica Andrews

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake Recipe Easy and Delicious

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake is a quick and flavorful meal that tastes like an elevated version of Hamburger Helper. It's creamy, cheesy, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and easy.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz. penne pasta
  • 1.5 lbs. ground beef
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
  • 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 (14 oz.) can diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Method
 

  1. Prepare the penne pasta following package instructions, saving one cup of the cooking water before draining it. Put the drained pasta back into its pot.
  2. Place a large non-stick skillet on medium heat and add the ground beef. Sprinkle with salt and Italian seasoning. Let the beef cook undisturbed until browned on the bottom, about 4 to 5 minutes, then break it apart and stir.
  3. Continue cooking the beef while stirring occasionally until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, around 3 to 5 more minutes. Drain any excess grease if you like.
  4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook, stirring now and then, until the onions soften, roughly 3 to 4 minutes.
  5. Mix in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, stirring well. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through.
  6. Pour the heavy cream in and stir for about 30 seconds. Then add the shredded Cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
  7. Combine the beef mixture with the pasta in the pot and stir together thoroughly.
  8. Pour in 2 to 4 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce slightly, making it silky. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

  • For a creamier texture, add a bit more heavy cream or cheese. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stove or microwave.