I’ve been having so much fun experimenting with pasta and ground beef lately!
There’s something utterly comforting about the combination of these two ingredients.
From the timeless classic of Spaghetti Bolognese to the cheesy goodness of Beef Lasagna, each dish just feels like a warm hug.
Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight meal like Beefy Macaroni and Cheese or a dish that will impress your guests, like Italian Beef Casserole, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s explore these 13 delicious recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen!
Classic Spaghetti Bolognese

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese is a popular Italian dish that’s loved by many for its rich, flavorful taste and filling nature. This hearty meal is a perfect combination of ground beef, pasta, and a tasty tomato-based sauce, making it a balanced dish full of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables.
It’s a versatile dish that can be served for lunch or dinner, and makes for great leftovers too.
Cooking Spaghetti Bolognese can be a rewarding experience, as the process involves a range of cooking techniques from sautéing to simmering. This recipe takes about an hour to prepare and cook, making it a good choice for a weekend meal when you have a bit more time to spare.
It’s a straightforward recipe that promises a delicious meal at the end.
Ingredients:
- 500g of ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
- 400g of canned chopped tomatoes
- 400g of spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 cup of red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Make sure to break up any large chunks.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery to the pan. Cook these until they’re soft and the onions are translucent.
- Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes, along with the red wine if you’re using it. Stir everything together.
- Season the mixture with the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ascertain the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
- After the sauce has simmered, taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated.
- Serve the Spaghetti Bolognese hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
When cooking your Classic Spaghetti Bolognese, it’s crucial to recognize that simmering the sauce for a longer time will result in a richer flavor.
However, be careful not to let it dry out – if it looks like it’s getting too thick, add a little water or some more canned tomatoes. Additionally, feel free to experiment with the type of pasta you use – while spaghetti is traditional, other types like fettuccine or penne can work just as well.
Cheesy Beef Lasagna

A hearty and satisfying cheesy beef lasagna is always a favorite at any gathering. Its layers of pasta, meat, and cheese create a comfort dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. This recipe is perfect for those who love the classic Italian dish but prefer a beefy twist. The rich flavors of ground beef and three types of cheese blend beautifully in this dish, promising a delicious meal that’s sure to please.
This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering with friends. The ingredients are easily available and the steps are simple to follow. You can even prepare the lasagna in advance to save time on the day of your event.
Let’s explore the ingredients and steps to make this amazing cheesy beef lasagna.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and chopped basil. Mix until smooth.
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place 4 lasagna noodles on top.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat this layering process once more.
- Top with the remaining 4 noodles, the rest of the meat sauce, and the remaining cheeses.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips:
When cooking the lasagna, it’s important to cover the dish with foil for the initial baking. This helps to prevent the top from burning before the inside is fully cooked.
Remember to remove the foil for the final 10 minutes to get that deliciously crispy cheese topping. Also, for a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta mixture.
Finally, always let your lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This makes it easier to cut and serve, and also allows the flavors to meld together better. Enjoy your homemade cheesy beef lasagna!
Beefy Macaroni and Cheese

Beefy Macaroni and Cheese is a classic comfort food dish that combines two favorites – ground beef and creamy macaroni and cheese. This hearty meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, as it’s easy to prepare and is sure to be a hit with the whole family. The savory ground beef adds a delicious protein boost to the creamy, cheesy pasta, and the baked crust adds a delightful crunch.
It’s a wholesome, satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is designed for a serving size of 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. It’s a versatile dish that you can easily modify to suit your taste preference. Add in some vegetables for extra nutrition, or experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor twist.
Here’s how you can prepare Beefy Macaroni and Cheese at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 2 cups of elbow macaroni
- 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups of milk
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbled. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth.
- Mix in the cooked macaroni and ground beef until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, and sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
When preparing Beefy Macaroni and Cheese, make sure to not overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven. For a more decadent dish, you can use a combination of different types of cheese like gouda, parmesan, or fontina.
Also, you can add in some cooked vegetables such as bell peppers or peas for added color and nutrition. Enjoy this comforting and delightful dish with your loved ones.
Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells is an Italian-inspired dish that’s delicious, filling, and perfect for a family dinner. The shells are stuffed with a hearty ground beef filling and topped with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. This recipe is an excellent way to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your own kitchen. The best part is, it’s simple enough for anyone to make, and it’s sure to impress your guests.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s a bit different from your regular pasta night, this Ground Beef Stuffed Shells recipe is perfect. It’s a fun twist on traditional stuffed shells, and the ground beef gives it a robust flavor that will satisfy even the biggest of appetites. The dish is comforting and hearty, perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something warm and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 24 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and continue to cook until the onions are translucent.
- Remove from heat and add the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
- Spread a cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Fill each pasta shell with the ground beef mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Extra Tips:
This recipe is flexible, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses or herbs based on your preference. If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can stuff the shells and arrange them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to allow extra baking time if you’re starting with a cold dish.
Also, be careful not to overcook the shells initially, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
Italian Beef and Pasta Casserole

Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with this delicious Italian Beef and Pasta Casserole. This hearty dish combines the robust taste of ground beef with the comforting textures of pasta, all baked to perfection in a cheesy, savory sauce. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy evening with friends, this casserole brings the warmth and love of Italian cuisine right into your kitchen.
This Italian Beef and Pasta Casserole is a simple and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite. The pasta is cooked until al dente and mixed with ground beef cooked in traditional Italian herbs and spices. Then, the mixture is layered with a blend of Italian cheeses and baked until golden and bubbly. The result is a casserole that’s equal parts creamy, cheesy, and meaty, all in one bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 2 cups pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz.) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Be sure to stir often to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and meat sauce. Stir until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta and meat sauce.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let stand for a few minutes before serving, then garnish with fresh basil leaves.
While this Italian Beef and Pasta Casserole is a meal in itself, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic bread for added crunch.
Beef Ragu With Pappardelle

With origins in Italy, Beef Ragu with Pappardelle is a hearty and comforting dish that has become a favourite worldwide. This sumptuous recipe combines the richness of slow-cooked ground beef ragu with the silky texture of pappardelle pasta. The tender, flavoursome meat sauce generously coats the wide, flat pasta, resulting in a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
This dish is perfect for a weekend family dinner or a cosy evening meal. The recipe takes a little time and patience, but the end result is absolutely worth it. The secret to a perfect Beef Ragu with Pappardelle is to let the beef cook slowly and absorb all the flavours. With a serving size of 4 to 6 people, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups of pappardelle pasta
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes (28 oz)
- 1 cup of red wine
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot and sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks to guarantee it cooks evenly.
- Once the beef is browned, add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the sauce simmer for at least 2 hours. The longer the sauce simmers, the more flavourful it will become.
- About 20 minutes before the sauce is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pappardelle and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the pot with the sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it’s well coated.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
When cooking Beef Ragu with Pappardelle, remember to give the sauce enough time to simmer. This will allow the flavours to meld together and the sauce to thicken, resulting in a rich and robust ragu.
The type of pasta is also important – pappardelle is perfect for this dish because its wide, flat shape holds the sauce well. Finally, don’t forget the garnish. A little freshly grated Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves can elevate the dish and add a touch of freshness. Enjoy your cooking journey!
Taco-Inspired Pasta Skillet

Does the thought of a taco and pasta fusion meal sound tempting? If so, you’ll absolutely love our Taco-Inspired Pasta Skillet. This dish perfectly marries the savoriness of ground beef with the comforting familiarity of pasta, all drenched in the zestiness of traditional taco flavors.
It’s a quick and easy meal that’s sure to please both your busy schedule and your family’s taste buds, serving 4-6 people. This dish, with its rich and hearty flavors, is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
It’s the kind of comfort food that fills you up without making you feel overly stuffed. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for the kids, as they’ll be too busy enjoying the meal to notice!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 2 cups of uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 packet of taco seasoning (or 3 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can of diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup of corn (frozen, canned, or fresh)
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups of water
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapenos
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they’re soft and the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef and stir until it’s evenly distributed.
- Add the uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes (with juice), black beans, corn, and water to the skillet. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking.
- Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover it again and let it cook for a few more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve the dish hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.
Extra Cooking Tips:
The beauty of this Taco-Inspired Pasta Skillet is its versatility. Feel free to add other ingredients you like.
If you’re not a beef fan, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken. If you like your meals extra spicy, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapenos to the mix.
Beefy Fettuccine Alfredo

The Beefy Fettuccine Alfredo recipe is a delicious blend of tender ground beef, creamy alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta. This dish is a hearty, savory delight that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for a rich and flavorful pasta meal. The ground beef adds a layer of savory depth to the classic alfredo pasta, making it a perfect dinner choice for a family of 4-6 people or a small gathering of friends.
The creamy alfredo sauce in this recipe is made from scratch, providing a fresh and flavorful base that beautifully complements the beef and pasta. The process is simple and straightforward, making it an ideal choice for those new to cooking or those looking for an easy-to-make yet hearty meal. Enjoy this delicious pasta dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb fettuccine pasta
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Cooking Instructions:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly, stirring occasionally. Drain the excess grease and set the beef aside.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour the heavy cream into the saucepan and bring to a simmer. Stir frequently to prevent the cream from scorching.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Season the alfredo sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked ground beef to the alfredo sauce and stir to combine.
- Finally, add the cooked fettuccine to the saucepan and gently toss until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
- Garnish the pasta with the chopped fresh parsley before serving.
When cooking the Beefy Fettuccine Alfredo, remember to stir the sauce frequently to prevent it from burning or becoming lumpy.
It’s also important to cook the pasta just until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook a bit when it’s added to the hot sauce. For a lighter version of this dish, you may substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. Enjoy this hearty and delicious meal with your loved ones!
Creamy Beef and Tomato Penne

Creamy Beef and Tomato Penne is a comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines the heartiness of ground beef with the tangy freshness of tomatoes and the creaminess of a luscious white sauce. The pasta, soaked in the rich flavors of the ingredients, offers a delightful bite that makes this dish a perfect option for a family dinner or a casual gathering.
With its easy preparation and familiar ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The key to making this dish stand out is in the quality of the ingredients. Fresh Roma tomatoes, good quality ground beef, and a robust penne pasta form the backbone of this recipe. The creaminess is brought about by a mix of heavy cream and Parmesan, while a blend of Italian herbs adds a touch of authenticity.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 2 cups Penne Pasta
- 2 cups Fresh Roma Tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Fresh Basil for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by boiling the penne pasta. In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt. Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is boiling, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, dried basil, and dried oregano.
- Once the beef is browned, add the diced Roma tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer until the tomatoes are soft and have released their juices.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Ultimately, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy beef and tomato sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
When cooking this Creamy Beef and Tomato Penne, make sure to regularly stir the sauce to prevent it from sticking to the skillet. Also, taste the sauce before adding the pasta. If needed, adjust the seasoning to suit your preference.
Remember that the pasta will absorb some of the flavors, so it’s okay if the sauce seems a bit on the salty side. Ultimately, don’t overcook the pasta – it should be al dente to maintain a nice texture when mixed with the sauce. Enjoy this homely and heartwarming dish!
Ground Beef Carbonara

Ground Beef Carbonara is a delightful fusion of classic Italian carbonara and hearty American comfort food. This dish is a perfect combination of juicy ground beef, creamy pasta, and a hint of flavorful spices. The ground beef adds a rich, meaty flavor that complements the creaminess of the pasta, while the spices add a kick that makes this dish stand out.
This recipe is perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings as it serves 4-6 people. The best part about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients according to your preference. The key is to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Let’s move onto the ingredients and detailed steps to make this delicious Ground Beef Carbonara.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 200 grams spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, but subtract a minute from the cooking time as it will continue to cook in the sauce later. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s completely browned.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is aromatic.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, and parmesan cheese. This will be your carbonara sauce.
- Lower the heat and pour the carbonara sauce into the skillet. Stir to combine with the beef and onions.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until it’s fully coated in the sauce. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
When cooking Ground Beef Carbonara, it’s essential to reserve some pasta water. The starchy pasta water can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency if it becomes too thick.
Also, remember to add the carbonara sauce to the skillet after lowering the heat. This prevents the eggs in the sauce from scrambling. Finally, serve the dish immediately as it tastes best when hot. Enjoy this creamy, meaty, and flavorful Ground Beef Carbonara!
Meaty Rigatoni Bake

Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a dish to feed a crowd, Meaty Rigatoni Bake is the answer. This succulent combination of ground beef, pasta, and cheese baked to perfection will surely win the hearts of pasta lovers.
It’s a comforting, filling, and utterly delicious dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. The secret to the richness of this dish lies in the robust meat sauce, made with a mix of ground beef, tomatoes, and spices.
The rigatoni pasta soaks up the mouthwatering sauce, and the whole lot is smothered in cheese and baked until bubbling and golden. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, around 7-10 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil into the skillet. Simmer the sauce for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine the cooked rigatoni and meat sauce in a large bowl, mixing well to confirm the pasta is evenly coated.
- Pour half of the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Layer the remaining pasta and sauce over the cheese, then top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
Extra Tips:
When preparing Meaty Rigatoni Bake, verify to cook the pasta just until it’s al dente. This is because the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, and overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
Also, feel free to add in some extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for additional nutrition. Finally, for a burst of freshness, garnish the finished dish with some chopped fresh basil or parsley. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Meaty Rigatoni Bake!
Beef and Mushroom Farfalle

Beef and Mushroom Farfalle is a hearty pasta dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the robust essence of ground beef. This Italian-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The combination of ground beef and mushrooms results in a savory and satisfying meal, while the farfalle pasta adds a delightful texture and visual appeal.
This recipe is simple to prepare and can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner. Additionally, the ingredients are affordable and easily available at any supermarket. Whether you’re cooking for a family of four or expecting a few friends over, this recipe is sure to impress with its delicious flavors and effortless preparation.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 2 cups of farfalle (bow tie) pasta
- 2 cups of sliced fresh mushrooms
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup of red wine
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions:
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water is boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink. Use a spoon to break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks.
- Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and continue to cook until they’re soft and have released their juices.
- Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet. Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, red wine, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors blend together. After simmering, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Serve the Beef and Mushroom Farfalle hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
When cooking this dish, be sure not to overcook the pasta. It should be al dente, or firm to the bite, to guarantee it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Also, feel free to experiment with the types of mushrooms used in the recipe. Different varieties will give the dish a unique taste.
Finally, the use of a good red wine can enhance the flavors of the sauce, but it can be omitted if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
Ground Beef Pasta Primavera

Ground Beef Pasta Primavera is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. This dish combines lean ground beef with a variety of fresh vegetables and tender pasta in a creamy, savory sauce. The vibrant colors of the vegetables make this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can use any vegetables you have in hand, making it a great option for using up leftover veggies from the fridge. Furthermore, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters in your family. The ground beef adds protein to the dish, making it extra filling.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of lean ground beef
- 3 cups of uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work great)
- 2 cups of fresh vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and broccoli)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing your pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onions become translucent.
- Add your choice of vegetables to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp.
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine and allow the sauce to simmer and thicken for a few minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until it’s fully coated in the sauce.
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese on top of the pasta and stir until it’s melted and well incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.
Extra Tips:
When cooking the ground beef, be sure to break it up into small pieces for a more even distribution throughout the pasta.
If you prefer a lighter meal, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter. Just remember, the more fat in your dairy, the creamier your sauce will be.
Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta and vegetables to suit your preference.