Beef Pasta Bake Recipe Veg: Easy & Delicious Dinner Idea

Craving a hearty, comforting meal that combines the rich flavors of beef with the wholesome goodness of vegetables? This Beef Pasta Bake with Veg is your new go-to recipe for family dinners or cozy weekend meals.

It’s a delightful blend of tender ground beef, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, all smothered in a luscious tomato sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese. The best part?

It’s packed with nutrients and incredibly satisfying, making it an excellent way to sneak in some veggies without compromising on taste.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy yet impressive dish or simply someone who loves classic baked pasta dishes with a twist, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to swap or add vegetables based on your preference or seasonal availability.

So grab your apron and let’s dive into this deliciously wholesome beef pasta bake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef pasta bake is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s:

• Quick and easy to prepare – perfect for weeknights when time is tight.
• Nutritious and balanced – combining protein, carbs, and a rainbow of vegetables.
• Comfort food at its best – bubbling cheese and savory beef make it irresistible.
• Versatile and adaptable – you can easily swap veggies or add spices to suit your taste.
• Great for leftovers – it reheats beautifully for next-day meals.

Plus, it’s a fun way to introduce more vegetables to picky eaters without a fuss!

Ingredients

• 300g elbow macaroni or penne pasta
• 400g lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 150g mushrooms, sliced
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 150g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large frying pan or skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander for draining pasta
• Large baking dish (approx. 9×13 inches)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Knife and chopping board
• Oven mitts

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the beef and vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Add the vegetables: Stir in the diced red bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
5. Make the sauce: Add the canned chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to meld.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: In a large mixing bowl or the pasta pot, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and vegetable tomato sauce. Mix thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly.
7. Assemble the bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the pasta mixture to your baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let the pasta bake cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a veggie-packed twist, try adding chopped spinach or kale to the sauce during the last 5 minutes of simmering.

Substitute the beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based mince for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Cheese choices: Mix mozzarella with cheddar or provolone for a different flavor profile. For a creamier bake, add a dollop of ricotta before topping with cheese.

Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce for extra warmth and depth.

Gluten-free option: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free varieties or use spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles.

For more creative baked pasta inspiration, check out our Meatballs And Alfredo Sauce Recipe or the comforting Kosher Lasagna Recipe.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This beef pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. Try a simple mixed leaf salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers to balance the richness of the bake.

For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic bread or warm crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. A glass of your favorite red wine or a chilled sparkling water with lemon also complements this dish beautifully.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like our fresh and vibrant Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe for a lighter meal option or try the flavorsome Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes for another twist on ground beef dishes.

Conclusion

This Beef Pasta Bake with Veg is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings the best of comfort food and nutrition to your table. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to serve guests.

The combination of savory beef, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese creates a balanced and flavorful meal that everyone will love.

With easy-to-follow steps and plenty of room for customization, this recipe is a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this bake offers warmth, taste, and wholesome ingredients all in one delicious dish.

Give it a try and make your dinner routine a little more exciting!

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