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This Rotini Pasta Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. Packed with ground beef, marinara sauce, and layers of cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up. The Italian seasoning and garlic powder add a burst of flavor, making each bite irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for leftovers, this casserole has got you covered. Let’s dive into this cheesy, meaty goodness!
What You Will Need for This Casserole
Read more: Rotini Casserole Recipe
What you will need to make Rotini Pasta Casserole
- Rotini pasta: Holds sauce well, providing a hearty base with its spiral shape, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Ground beef: Adds rich, savory flavor and protein, making the casserole filling and satisfying.
- Marinara sauce: Brings tangy, tomato goodness, tying all ingredients together with its robust flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy top layer that’s irresistible.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creamy texture and mild flavor, balancing the dish with its smoothness.
- Italian seasoning: Infuses the casserole with a blend of herbs, enhancing the overall taste.
- Garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor, adding depth without overpowering other ingredients.
Essential Tools and Instruments
What tools/instruments will be needed to make Rotini Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta and browning the ground beef. It ensures even cooking and combines flavors well.
- Baking dish: Needed for layering and baking the casserole. It holds the ingredients together and allows for even heating.
- Colander: Drains the cooked pasta efficiently, preventing it from becoming soggy.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the sauce and pasta. It helps mix ingredients without scratching cookware.
- Measuring spoons: Ensures precise amounts of seasoning, which is crucial for balanced flavor.
- Oven: Bakes the casserole to melt the cheese and blend the flavors perfectly.
Rotini Pasta Casserole
A hearty and delicious casserole perfect for family dinners.
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Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz Rotini Pasta
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 jar Marinara Sauce (24 oz)
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- to taste Salt and Pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to the pot with the ground beef. Stir to combine.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, half of the meat sauce, and half of the ricotta cheese. Repeat the layers.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes:
This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
Read more: Pasta Casserole Recipe
Nutrition value:
Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg
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Make Ahead and Freezing Tips
Make Ahead Instructions
- Cook pasta and ground beef as directed.
- Combine pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta in a baking dish.
- Cover tightly with foil.
- Refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezing Instructions
- Assemble casserole as directed but don't bake.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap, then foil.
- Freeze up to 3 months.
- Thaw in fridge overnight before baking.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes.
Using ricotta cheese in this casserole adds a creamy texture that balances the marinara sauce perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ:
How long does it take to prepare this casserole?
About 45 minutes, including cooking and baking time.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne or fusilli works well.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely, just replace the ground beef with a meat substitute or extra veggies.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs nicely.
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