Simple Ground Beef, Bean & Pasta Casserole Recipe

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: mozzarella cheese

Low-fat cheese reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

canned beans

🥗Healthier: dry beans

💰Cheaper: canned lentils

Canned lentils are often cheaper and quicker to prepare.

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner, while ground pork can be less expensive.

pasta

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pasta

💰Cheaper: macaroni

Whole wheat pasta adds fiber, while macaroni is often cheaper.

Chop 1 onion and set aside.

In a Dutch oven, add 1 pound of ground beef and the chopped onion.

Add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and brown the ground beef on medium to medium-high heat until nice and brown.

Drain the ground beef and add 1 can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans.

Add 1 can of drained petite diced tomatoes and 1 can of tomato sauce.

Stir in 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper; stir until well combined.

Cook the mixture for approximately 3 to 5 minutes on medium to medium-low heat.

Prepare 3 cups of uncooked rigatoni noodles, cook them, and then add to the sauce; stir well.

Add 6 oz of finely shredded parmesan cheese and toss until well combined.

Spray a casserole dish with extra virgin olive oil cooking spray and add the mixture, spreading it evenly.

Top with shredded mozzarella cheese as desired.

Place the casserole in a preheated 350°F oven for approximately 20 to 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and brown.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens