This beef and mushroom pasta bake is a comforting dish that brings back memories of cozy family dinners. It's a hearty meal that combines the savory flavors of ground beef and earthy mushrooms with the creamy goodness of cheese, all baked to perfection. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the gooey, cheesy pasta underneath. Whether you're looking for a dish to warm you up on a chilly evening or something to impress at a potluck, this pasta bake is a winner.

This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, which helps cut through the richness of the dish. You might also consider serving it with some garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any extra sauce. For a complete meal, a side of steamed green beans or roasted vegetables would add a nice touch of color and nutrition.

Servings: 6

12 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
1 lb ground beef
8 oz sliced mushrooms
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.

Add the garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in the marinara sauce and beef broth, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and mushroom sauce. Stir in the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or additional mushrooms. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a different flavor profile. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

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