Italian Ground Beef Skillet Bolognese Casserole (55 Minutes)

Print

Print Recipe

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?

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

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/italian-ground-beef-skillet-bolognese-casserole-55-minutes/