Baked Pasta with Cheese and Meat: A Comforting, Cheesy Delight

Serving: This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil for added flavor.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This baked pasta can be frozen before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Variants
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with cooked vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a meatless option.
Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.
Different Cheese: Try adding provolone or gouda cheese for a different flavor profile.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, but large pasta like penne, ziti, or rigatoni holds up best in this dish.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the entire dish a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.