Ingredients:
1 lb (450 g) pasta shells or any short pasta (penne, rigatoni, ziti)
1 lb (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (24 oz / 680 g) marinara or pasta sauce
1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce (optional for extra sauciness)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the meat sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in marinara sauce, tomato sauce (if using), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
3. Assemble the casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, mix cooked pasta with the meat sauce.
Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly on top.
4. Bake
Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end (optional).
5. Serve
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm.
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