Creamy Beef Mince and Tomato Pasta Bake for Comforting Meals

Name: Creamy Beef Mince and Tomato Pasta Bake for Comforting Meals
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 300g beef mince; 200g pasta (penne or rigatoni); 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 200ml cream; 100g grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

June 2, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something truly heartwarming about a creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake that just screams comfort food! This dish is a staple in my kitchen, perfect for cozy family dinners or when I want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich flavors of the beef mingle beautifully with the tangy tomatoes, and the creamy texture makes every bite feel indulgent. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Trust me, once you serve this up, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the magic of this dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake - detail 1

Ingredients for Creamy Beef Mince and Tomato Pasta Bake

To whip up this delightful creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake, you’ll need the following ingredients. I recommend using fresh and high-quality items for the best flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

300g beef mince (I prefer using lean beef for a rich yet not overly greasy texture)
200g pasta (choose between penne or rigatoni; both hold the sauce beautifully)
1 can (400g) diced tomatoes (opt for those packed in juice for extra flavor)
1 onion, finely chopped (this adds a lovely sweetness when sautéed)
2 cloves garlic, minced (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
200ml cream (use heavy cream for a richer dish, but half-and-half works too)
100g grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, depending on your cheese preference)
2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin is my go-to for its robust flavor)
1 tsp dried oregano (adds a nice herby note)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skimp on seasoning; it elevates the dish!)

How to Prepare Creamy Beef Mince and Tomato Pasta Bake

Ready to dive into the delicious world of creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake? Let’s get cooking! I’ll walk you through each step to ensure you create a dish that’s as comforting as it is tasty. Grab your ingredients, and let’s do this!

Prepping the Pasta

First things first, let’s talk pasta! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling happily, add in your 200g of pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. You want it to have a slight bite, as it’ll continue to cook in the oven. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Oh, and don’t forget to save a splash of that pasta water—just in case you need to loosen the sauce later!

Cooking the Beef Mixture

Now, let’s focus on that savory beef mixture! Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Then, toss in the 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for another minute—trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing! Next, add in your 300g of beef mince. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly for about 5-7 minutes. Once the beef is nicely browned, stir in the can of diced tomatoes, 1 tsp of dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully. Finally, reduce the heat and stir in 200ml of cream, mixing until you achieve a luscious, creamy consistency.

Combining Ingredients

Time to bring it all together! Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef mixture and gently toss everything together. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated in that rich sauce. If it looks a bit thick, don’t hesitate to splash in a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Once everything is well combined, transfer this heavenly mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Baking Instructions

Now for the best part—baking! Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Once it’s ready, sprinkle 100g of grated cheese on top of your pasta bake, creating a glorious cheesy layer. Slide it into the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until that cheese is bubbling and golden brown. I can’t wait for you to see the perfect cheesy crust that forms—it’s simply irresistible!

Tips for Success

To ensure your creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake turns out absolutely perfect, here are some pro tips I swear by! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference in achieving that comforting, mouthwatering result.

Quality Ingredients: Always choose high-quality beef mince and fresh tomatoes. The flavor of the dish really shines through when you use the best ingredients. If you can, go for grass-fed beef—it adds a richness you won’t regret!
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente! You want the pasta to have a slight bite to it, as it will absorb some of the sauce while baking. If it’s too soft beforehand, it may turn mushy in the oven.
Season Generously: Don’t hold back on the salt and pepper! Seasoning at every step—especially when cooking the beef and adding the tomatoes—helps build layers of flavor that make this dish truly delicious.
Mix Well: When combining the pasta with the beef mixture, make sure everything is well-coated. You want each noodle to be enveloped in that creamy goodness. If it feels thick, that reserved pasta water is your best friend!
Presentation Matters: For an impressive finish, garnish with freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley just before serving. A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor.
Rest Before Serving: Letting the pasta bake sit for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven allows it to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy. Plus, it gives the flavors a moment to meld even more!

Variations on Creamy Beef Mince and Tomato Pasta Bake

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are countless ways to customize your creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake to suit your personal taste or pantry ingredients. Here are some of my favorite variations that can elevate this dish to new heights!

Vegetable Boost: Add in some colorful vegetables for extra nutrition! Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini work great. Just sauté them along with the onions to soften them before mixing in the beef.
Cheesy Delight: Switch up the cheese for a different flavor profile. Try using a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for a delightful sharpness, or even some blue cheese for a bold twist!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can make a world of difference. Toss in some chopped basil or parsley for freshness, or experiment with thyme and rosemary for a more earthy flavor.
Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture. For a smoky kick, a dash of smoked paprika can really enhance the overall flavor!
Different Pasta Shapes: While penne and rigatoni are great, don’t hesitate to use other pasta shapes! Fusilli or farfalle can add a fun twist and hold onto that creamy sauce just as well.
Protein Swap: Feel free to swap out the beef mince for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. You can even make it vegetarian by using lentils or a meat substitute!
Rich Sauce Variations: For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine when you sauté the onions. It adds a lovely depth that pairs beautifully with the beef and tomatoes.

With these variations, you can make this creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake your very own! Each twist brings something special to the table, ensuring that every time you make it, it can feel like a completely new dish. Enjoy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers from your creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake? Don’t worry, you can enjoy this delicious dish again! Proper storage is key to keeping that rich flavor and creamy texture intact. Here’s how to do it right:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the pasta bake to cool completely at room temperature before storing. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. I love using glass containers for leftovers because they help maintain freshness and are microwave-safe!
Refrigeration: Store your creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent any fridge odors from sneaking in!
Freezing: If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the pasta bake! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and seal it tightly. It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor. To freeze individual portions, consider using smaller containers or freezer bags.

Now, when it’s time to reheat, you’ve got a couple of options:

Microwave: For a quick reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to avoid splatters. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until it’s heated through. You might want to add a splash of cream or a bit of reserved pasta water to keep it creamy!
Oven: If you prefer that freshly baked taste, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pasta bake in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Remove the foil in the last few minutes if you want to let the cheese get a little bubbly again!

With these storage and reheating tips, your creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake will be just as delightful the second time around. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Nutritional Information

As you whip up this creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake, you might be curious about its nutritional profile. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving, based on the ingredients used. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific brands and measurements:

Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish
Calories: 550
Total Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 50g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 25g

This creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a hearty serving of protein and essential nutrients. It’s the perfect comfort food that you can feel good about enjoying! Remember, these figures are estimates, so feel free to adjust based on your specific ingredients and portions. Enjoy every delicious bite!

FAQ About Creamy Beef Mince and Tomato Pasta Bake

Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully. You can even make it vegetarian by swapping the beef mince for lentils or a meat substitute. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.

What kind of pasta is best for this bake?
I love using penne or rigatoni because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. However, you can experiment with other pasta types like fusilli or farfalle if you’re feeling adventurous! Just keep an eye on the cooking times to ensure they don’t overcook.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake up to a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a comforting meal in no time!

How do I store leftovers?
Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe containers for a quick meal later!

What can I add for extra flavor?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving. You could also mix in a splash of red wine while cooking the beef or toss in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: This creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners that make everyone feel at home.
Rich and Flavorful: The combination of savory beef, tangy tomatoes, and creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that will have your taste buds dancing!
Quick and Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can whip this dish up in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet and then bakes in one dish, making cleanup a breeze—who doesn’t love that?
Customizable: With endless variations, you can easily add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or spices to make it uniquely yours!
Perfect for Leftovers: It stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, so you can enjoy those delicious leftovers later without losing any flavor.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters adore this dish, making it a surefire hit for the whole family!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.