Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole

1 lb ground beef

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce

12 ounces uncooked pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the ground beef, and cook until the onions are softened, about 5 minutes. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir in the marinara sauce and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the beef and sauce mixture, stirring to combine.

Pour half of the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.

If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Simple Baked Beef and Pasta Casserole!