Cheesy Baked Pasta with Minced Meat

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and half of the meat sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Assemble the Baked Pasta:
   • Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
   • Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the pasta.
   • Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the shredded cheese layer.
   • Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture, meat sauce, shredded cheeses, and ricotta cheese, creating layers.
6. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly golden.
7. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
   • Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness of this baked pasta with minced meat!

Conclusion:

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Minced Meat is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the rich flavors of pasta, savory meat sauce, and layers of melted cheese. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a comforting meal, this baked pasta is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the deliciousness and warmth of homemade comfort food with every bite!