Creamy Garlic Ground Beef Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
3. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
5. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
7. Pour in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and heavy cream. Mix well.
9. Add the ground beef sauce to the pasta mixture and stir to combine.
10. Pour the pasta mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
11. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bake is heated through.
13. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
This creamy garlic ground beef pasta bake is a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
### Protein Swaps
If ground beef isn’t your first choice, there are plenty of other protein options that work wonderfully in this dish. Ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent lean alternatives.
Italian sausage (sweet or spicy) will add a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based ground meat substitutes or crumbled tofu. Make sure to adjust seasonings accordingly depending on your chosen protein.
### Pasta Choices
While penne and rotini are popular choices for pasta bakes, feel free to experiment with other shapes. Bow tie pasta (farfalle) or shells (conchiglie) can be equally delicious.
Consider using gluten-free pasta if needed. For a lower-carb option, try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
### Cheese Modifications
The combination of ricotta and mozzarella creates a creamy and cheesy texture. However, you can easily customize the cheese blend to your liking.
Try adding provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of Gruyere for a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella or ricotta cheese.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pasta Bake
Achieving the perfect creamy garlic ground beef pasta bake is all about attention to detail. These helpful hints ensure that every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
### Preventing a Dry Bake
One of the most common issues with pasta bakes is them drying out. To prevent this, make sure your pasta is slightly undercooked (al dente) before baking.
The sauce should be generous and coat the pasta well. Covering the baking dish with foil for the first half of the baking time can also help retain moisture. Remove the foil during the last few minutes to allow the cheese to melt and brown.
### Enhancing the Garlic Flavor
Garlic is a star ingredient in this recipe. To maximize its flavor, sauté the minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
Consider adding roasted garlic for an even more intense flavor. You can roast a whole head of garlic in the oven until softened and then squeeze the cloves into the sauce.
### Adding Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and freshness to any dish. Incorporate fresh parsley, basil, or oregano into the pasta bake.
Add the herbs towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their flavor and aroma. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top of the finished bake adds a beautiful touch.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
This creamy garlic ground beef pasta bake is perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time for a party.
### Preparing in Advance
You can assemble the pasta bake a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
When you’re ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure the bake is heated through.
### Freezing for Later
For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta bake. Assemble the bake in a freezer-safe dish and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the bake in the refrigerator overnight. Bake as directed, adding extra time if necessary.
### Reheating Leftovers
Leftover pasta bake can be reheated in the oven or microwave. For the oven, cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
For the microwave, place a portion of the bake on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed.
Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments
This creamy garlic ground beef pasta bake is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but it can be elevated with the right side dishes and accompaniments.
### Complementary Side Dishes
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a classic pairing for pasta bakes. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of the dish.
Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are always a hit. Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy and flavorful element to the meal.
### Wine Pairings
For a red wine pairing, try a medium-bodied Chianti or a Merlot. These wines have enough acidity to complement the richness of the pasta bake without overpowering it.
If you prefer white wine, a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would be a good choice.
### Garnishing Ideas
Garnish the pasta bake with fresh parsley, basil, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving. A drizzle of olive oil adds a touch of richness and flavor. Serve with a side of red pepper flakes for those who like a little heat.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Information
While this creamy garlic ground beef pasta bake is undeniably delicious, it’s important to consider its nutritional content.
### Lowering the Fat Content
To reduce the fat content of this recipe, use lean ground beef or ground turkey. Opt for part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheese.
Substitute heavy cream with evaporated milk or a mixture of milk and cornstarch. You can also add more vegetables to the sauce to bulk it up and reduce the amount of meat needed.
### Increasing Fiber
Increase the fiber content by using whole wheat pasta. Add vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce.
Consider using a smaller portion of pasta and adding a side salad or vegetable dish.
### Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
(Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fiber: 3-5g
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute or add other cheeses like provolone, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere.
How can I make this vegetarian?
Use plant-based ground meat substitutes or crumbled tofu instead of ground beef.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
How do I prevent the pasta bake from drying out?
Make sure your pasta is slightly undercooked and the sauce is generous. Cover the baking dish with foil for the first half of the baking time.
Can I freeze this pasta bake?
Yes, assemble the bake in a freezer-safe dish and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
