Creamy Baked Beef Pasta Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic
There’s something magical about the smell of baked pasta bubbling away in the oven—the rich tomato sauce mingling with creamy layers of cheese and tender noodles. This Creamy Baked Beef Pasta Casserole is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s hearty, comforting, and easy enough to make any night of the week. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish delivers that irresistible homestyle flavor that reminds you of Sunday suppers at grandma’s table.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe combines perfectly cooked pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato cream sauce all baked to golden perfection. The result? A mouthwatering casserole that’s cheesy, creamy, and deeply satisfying—every forkful feels like a warm hug.
What makes this casserole stand out is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dinner that feels gourmet without all the fuss. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to please picky eaters.
Ingredients and Their Purpose
1 pound ground beef: The hearty foundation of the casserole, adding savory depth and meaty richness.
16 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni): The perfect vessel for soaking up all that creamy, beefy sauce.
2 cans (10.5 oz each) tomato soup: A clever shortcut that adds sweetness, tang, and velvety consistency to the sauce.
1 cup sour cream: Brings a creamy tang that balances the tomato flavor and keeps the dish moist.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce for gooey, golden comfort in every bite.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances flavor and brings subtle warmth.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a savory backbone without the need for chopping.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the dish with aromatic herbs like basil and oregano.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing flavors.
Olive oil or butter (for greasing the pan): Prevents sticking and adds a hint of richness.
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a bright pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly oil or butter two 9×13-inch baking dishes, or use one large catering pan. Greasing ensures your pasta bakes evenly without sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente—tender yet firm to the bite. This is important because the pasta will continue cooking in the oven. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
Pro Tip: Toss the drained pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent clumping while you prep the rest.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart and let it brown without over-stirring—this creates flavorful caramelization. Once browned, drain any excess fat for a cleaner, lighter sauce.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Return the beef to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the tomato soup and mix until the meat is evenly coated and the sauce is glossy.
Now, fold in the sour cream, creating a smooth and creamy tomato-beef sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Step 5: Combine and Layer
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, stirring gently to combine everything evenly. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dishes.
Sprinkle the top generously with shredded cheddar cheese, covering every inch for that perfect golden crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned at the edges.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving—this helps the sauce set and makes slicing easier. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
Family-approved flavor: A perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory that everyone adores.
Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
Feeds a crowd: Ideal for gatherings, holidays, or meal prepping ahead.
Comfort in every bite: It’s nostalgic, hearty, and endlessly satisfying.
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Beef Pasta
Don’t overcook the pasta—it should still have some bite before baking.
Use sharp cheddar for maximum cheesy flavor.
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Double the recipe and freeze one casserole before baking for a future quick dinner.
For extra creaminess, mix in ½ cup of cream cheese with the sour cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Creamy Baked Beef Pasta Casserole with:
A side of garlic bread for soaking up every drop of sauce.
A crisp Caesar salad or steamed green beans for freshness.
A glass of red wine or iced tea for the perfect pairing.
Conclusion
This Creamy Baked Beef Pasta Casserole is the definition of comfort food done right—easy to make, irresistibly creamy, and rich with bold flavors that satisfy every craving. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish promises to deliver that warm, nostalgic taste of home.
Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and maximum flavor—it’s a weeknight winner that deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Make it once, and you’ll crave it again and again.