Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake
Introduction
This Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It combines tender beef, rich sauce, al dente pasta, and melted cheese to create a satisfying meal. The origins of pasta bakes can be traced back to Italian-American cuisine, where baked pasta dishes like lasagna and baked ziti became staples in many households.
Ingredients
• Pasta: 12 oz egg noodles or your favorite pasta
• Beef: 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Onion: 1 medium onion, diced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Tomato sauce: 2 cups
• Beef broth: 1 cup
• Cheese: 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Salt: to taste
• Black pepper: to taste
• Parsley: fresh, chopped for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Combine: Add the cooked beef back into the sauce. Stir to combine, then add the cooked pasta. Mix well.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
History
Pasta bakes, such as this Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake, have roots in Italian-American cuisine, where casseroles became popular due to their ease of preparation and ability to feed a crowd. Dishes like baked ziti and lasagna have inspired countless variations, each bringing unique flavors and ingredients.
Benefits
• Comfort Food: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, providing a warm and hearty meal.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the beef, carbohydrates from the pasta, and calcium from the cheese.
• Versatile: Can be customized with different vegetables, sauces, or cheeses.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for making ahead and reheating, saving time on busy days.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: 200mg
• Iron: 3mg
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is a versatile and nutritious dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Its rich history and adaptability make it a go-to meal for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the ease of preparation that comes with this delightful pasta bake.
Lovers of Pasta Bakes
This dish is loved by those who enjoy hearty, flavorful, and comforting meals. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, a busy parent looking for an easy dinner option, or someone who enjoys meal prepping, this Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is sure to please.