Baked Pasta Casserole with Fresh Salad – Comfort Food Made Simple

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

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

3. Prepare the Meat Sauce

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add minced meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Stir in tomato sauce, black pepper, and Italian herbs. Simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Assemble the Casserole

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with the meat sauce.

Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.

5. Bake