Italian Ground Beef Skillet Bolognese Casserole (55 Minutes)

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Here is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of a classic Bolognese sauce with small shell pasta, all baked to perfection in a skillet. This one-pan meal is perfect for those who love traditional Italian flavors but also appreciate the convenience and heartiness of a casserole.

The combination of ground beef, aromatic herbs, and pasta, topped with melted cheese, makes this dish a satisfying meal for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings. Ready to get started?

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Bolognese Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil

For the Casserole:

  • 2 cups small shell pasta
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta (10 minutes): Cook the small shell pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make Bolognese Sauce (20 minutes): In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are soft. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce (5 minutes): Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Bolognese sauce. Stir well to combine.
  4. Add Cheese and Bake (15 minutes): Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta and sauce mixture. Place the skillet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-15 minutes.
  5. Garnish and Serve (5 minutes): Remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve the casserole hot directly from the skillet.

Notes

To ensure a rich and flavorful Bolognese, allow the sauce to simmer so the ingredients can fully develop their flavors. Using a combination of cheeses provides both a gooey melt and a sharp flavor.

The pasta should be cooked just until al dente as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. This recipe is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your table in a comforting and family-friendly format. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Pair this with...

Cheesy Breadsticks

Begin with a basic bread dough – a blend of flour, water, yeast, a bit of sugar, and salt. After kneading and letting it rise until it doubles, roll the dough out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Now, here comes the cheesy magic! Generously sprinkle your favorite shredded cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, over half of the dough. Fold the other half over the cheese, sealing the cheesy treasure within. Cut the dough into strips, giving you the classic breadstick shape. Arrange them on a baking sheet. Before they go into a preheated oven, you might want to brush them with a mixture of melted butter and garlic for an extra layer of flavor. Bake until they're golden and the cheese inside has melted into gooey perfection.

Simple Steamed Broccoli

Begin with fresh broccoli, breaking it into even-sized florets to ensure uniform steaming. Rinse them under cold water to remove any impurities and to refresh their natural green hue. In a pot with a steamer insert, bring a small amount of water to a boil, ensuring the water level remains below the steamer. Place the broccoli florets into the steamer, covering the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Within a few minutes, the broccoli will transform into a brighter shade of green, signaling its readiness. Once tender but still slightly crisp, transfer the broccoli to a serving dish. A sprinkle of sea salt, a light drizzle of olive oil, or even a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance its earthy taste.

Fresh Mixed Greens Salad

Start with a base of mixed greens, combining varieties like arugula, spinach, romaine, or any leafy greens you love. Slice up a handful of cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness. Next, peel and shave or thinly slice a carrot for a sweet and crunchy addition. Now, here's where you get to be creative. Raid your fridge for veggies – maybe some leftover bell peppers, slices of cucumber, or even some steamed broccoli or green beans. Toss them all into your salad. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette or dressing, give it a good mix, and you've got a vibrant, crunchy, and fresh salad that goes well with just about any meal.

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