Italian one step casserole –Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a hearty, delicious meal? Look no further than this fantastic Italian Casserole! Packed with flavor and easy to make, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Let’s dive right into the details!
Italian Casserole
This Italian casserole is a wonderful blend of ingredients that come together to create a warm and comforting dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or for feeding a crowd during gatherings. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 2 cups cooked pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and garlic until the meat is browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and ricotta cheese. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the beef mixture on the bottom. Next, spread the pasta and ricotta mixture over the beef, then top with the remaining beef mixture.
- Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
This Italian Casserole brings a taste of Italy right to your table, combining delicious flavors and wholesome ingredients. Serve it with a side salad and some garlic bread to make the meal complete. Enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones!