Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef & Meatball Pasta Bake
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food dinner, this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Bake with Meatballs is rich, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Made with tender pasta, juicy seasoned ground beef meatballs, and a creamy, savory sauce, this easy baked pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
- 2 cups creamy pasta sauce (Alfredo or cheese sauce)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form into small meatballs.
Tip: Avoid overmixing to keep your meatballs tender and juicy.
Brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
👉 Tip: Slightly undercook the pasta since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Assemble the Pasta Bake
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with creamy sauce and half of the shredded cheeses. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Top with cooked meatballs and sprinkle remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
✅ High-protein meal thanks to ground beef and cheese
✅ Perfect family-friendly dinner recipe
✅ Great for meal prep and leftovers
✅ Freezer-friendly pasta bake
✅ Budget-friendly comfort food
Expert Cooking Tips
✔ Use lean ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and moisture).
✔ Add sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra flavor.
✔ Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or provolone for a different cheesy twist.
✔ For extra creaminess, mix in a few tablespoons of cream cheese.
✔ Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes.
Storage & Reheating
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat covered to keep the pasta moist.
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