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Cheesy Beef and Spinach Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any family dinner or gathering. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy cheeses, and nutritious spinach, making it a perfect one-pot meal that everyone will love. The delightful combination of textures—from the tender pasta to the gooey melted cheese—ensures that each bite is a delicious experience.

Cheesy Beef and Spinach Pasta Bake

Discover the warmth of home with this Cheesy Beef and Spinach Pasta Bake, a perfect easy weeknight dinner that promises comfort and satisfaction for the whole family. Rich ground beef meets fresh spinach in a creamy, cheesy sauce thats both indulgent and wholesome. Ideal for busy nights or special gatherings, this dish is sure to impress and fill bellies. Save this recipe for later and bring a cozy, delicious meal to your table tonight!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rigatoni)

1 lb (450g) ground beef

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups marinara sauce

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, diced

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta of your choice (penne or rigatoni) and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, approximately 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Sauté the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, introduce the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown the meat thoroughly, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

        Add Spinach: After the beef is no longer pink, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts down, about 2-3 minutes, ensuring it’s well distributed throughout the beef mixture.

          Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the beef and spinach mixture, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce. Stir this mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

            Prepare for Baking: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Transfer half of the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Layer half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Then, pour the remaining pasta mixture over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly again. Finish by topping with the rest of the mozzarella cheese and sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese generously across the surface.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has turned a lovely golden color.

                Garnish and Serve: Once done, take the pasta bake out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor before serving the dish warm.

                  Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 55 mins | Servings: 6

                    Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta bake directly from the baking dish or portion it onto individual plates. Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal!