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Italian Dressing Baked Pasta is a cheesy, hearty family dinner made with tender macaroni, seasoned ground beef, zesty Italian dressing, and melted mozzarella. This easy baked pasta casserole is perfect for busy weeknight meals, comfort food dinners, meal prep lunches, potlucks, and budget-friendly family recipes, delivering rich Italian-inspired flavor with simple pantry ingredients.

Italian Dressing Baked Pasta

Italian Dressing Baked Pasta is a cheesy, hearty family dinner made with tender macaroni, seasoned ground beef, zesty Italian dressing, and melted mozzarella. This easy baked pasta casserole is perfect for busy weeknight meals, comfort food dinners, meal prep lunches, potlucks, and budget-friendly family recipes, delivering rich Italian-inspired flavor with simple pantry ingredients.
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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni cooked
  • 16 oz zesty Italian dressing
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 1 can diced tomatoes drained (optional)
  • Instructions

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • - 9x13 baking dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Cook pasta until al dente and drain.
  3. Brown meat and drain excess grease.
  4. Mix pasta, meat, tomatoes, and Italian dressing.
  5. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
  6. Top with shredded cheese.
  7. Bake 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  8. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt.
Add Parmesan for extra flavor.
Great for meal prep and freezer meals.
Serve with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete family dinner.