Wagon Wheel Casserole is a fun and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. This comforting casserole combines wagon wheel pasta with a savory meat sauce, melty cheese, and a touch of spices. It’s easy to prepare and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Serve it with a simple salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces wagon wheel pasta (or other short pasta)
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the wagon wheel pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir in the oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Serve this Wagon Wheel Casserole hot, with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a satisfying and fun meal that the whole family will enjoy!
