Creamy pasta casserole –Get ready to indulge in a delightful dish that every pasta lover will adore! This Cheesy Baked Pasta with Creamy Meat Sauce is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of rich flavors and comforting textures will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that showcases shell pasta in the best way possible!
Cheesy Baked Pasta with Creamy Meat Sauce
Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? This cheesy baked pasta is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to make. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz shell pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, mixing until evenly coated.
- Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the top. Add the remaining pasta and finish off with the rest of the mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your delicious cheesy baked pasta!
This Cheesy Baked Pasta with Creamy Meat Sauce will surely be a hit at your dinner table. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Bon appétit!