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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Once the meat is browned, stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. The roux should become golden and bubbly.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
Once thickened, remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. The béchamel should be smooth, creamy, and cheesy.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and meat sauce. Stir until the pasta is well-coated in the sauce. Then, pour the béchamel sauce over the pasta and meat mixture, stirring to combine.
Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that irresistible, cheesy crust.
Step 4: Bake
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set. Slice into generous portions and enjoy! This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Why This Classic Pasta Casserole Works So Well
- The meat sauce brings deep, savory flavors that perfectly complement the creamy béchamel.
- The béchamel sauce adds a rich, velvety texture that makes every bite comforting and satisfying.
- The cheese not only melts beautifully but also provides that golden, crispy top that everyone loves in a casserole.
- The pasta acts as the perfect base to soak up all of the delicious sauces and flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Casserole
✅ Make it ahead – This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
✅ Use different pasta shapes – While penne, rigatoni, and ziti are great options, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes based on what you have in your pantry.
✅ Add vegetables – For extra nutrition, add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meat sauce before combining it with the pasta.
✅ Try a meatless version – If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can swap the ground beef with plant-based meat or even lentils for a hearty, meatless alternative.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Pasta Casserole with Meat Sauce and Cheesy Béchamel is the ultimate comfort food, combining the best parts of lasagna and pasta into one delicious, easy-to-make dish. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home.
Give this recipe a try, and watch it disappear as everyone digs in for a second (or third!) helping. 😊🍽️
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