My whole family couldn’t get enough of this. Next time, I’m making double!

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the pasta: Start by boiling your pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the meat: While the pasta is cooking, heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan with the meat. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the tomatoes and peas: Stir in the diced tomatoes and frozen peas (or any vegetable you prefer). Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Combine the Casserole

5. Mix in the cream and seasonings: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Add the cooked pasta: Toss in the cooked pasta, mixing everything well so that the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

7. Assemble the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, followed by the breadcrumbs (if using) for a crispy topping.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with a little fresh parsley or basil if you like, and enjoy!

Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite

• Comfort Food, Simplified: This casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines all the best elements: savory ground meat, creamy sauce, cheesy goodness, and a satisfying crunch on top. It’s warm and cozy, perfect for a family dinner.
• Quick and Simple: It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It comes together in under 45 minutes, with most of that time spent baking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s easy to customize with whatever you have in your fridge or pantry.
• A Little Goes a Long Way: This casserole is incredibly filling and can easily feed a large family or provide leftovers for the next day. And let’s face it—leftovers often taste even better once the flavors have had time to develop.
• Kid-Friendly: If you have picky eaters at home, this dish is an easy sell. The creamy texture and cheesy topping make it irresistible to kids (and adults alike!). You can even sneak in some extra veggies or swap out ingredients based on what your family prefers.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this casserole is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs.

• Meat-Free: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, simply swap the ground meat for lentils, tofu, or more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
• Add More Veggies: If your family loves veggies, feel free to add more. Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers all work great in this casserole.
• Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and skip the breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free alternative.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a little hot sauce to spice things up if your family loves a bit of heat.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Want to Make Double Next Time

This casserole is truly a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it to your immediate family, taking it to a potluck, or feeding a group of friends, this recipe will have everyone coming back for more. The combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors makes it a comforting meal that’s easy to love. And since it’s so quick and easy to make, there’s no reason you can’t make double next time—trust me, it’ll disappear fast!

So, if you’re looking for a family dinner that’s sure to be a hit, give this recipe a try. I guarantee your family will be asking for it again and again, and you might even find yourself making double the next time just to keep up with the demand! Happy cooking!