This dish is a delightful fusion of savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and a generous amount of melted cheese, all combined with al dente pasta. It’s the ideal meal for families looking for a hearty weeknight dinner that satisfies everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale:
12 ounces of penne or rotini pasta
1 pound of ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots work well)
2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and toss with olive oil.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and brown, breaking it apart until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft.
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and frozen vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let simmer for 5-10 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Pour the beef mixture over and mix well.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
Let cool for a few minutes and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
