If you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal that brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, and sweet caramelized onions, this Beef and Caramelized Onion Pasta Bake is exactly what you need. It’s a simple yet flavorful casserole that combines juicy browned beef with deeply caramelized onions, all tossed with tender pasta and topped with a melty, cheesy crust.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend family gatherings, this dish is comfort food at its finest — warming, filling, and utterly delicious.

Savory Beef and Caramelized Onion Pasta Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The caramelized onions add a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the savory beef
Cheesy pasta bake that’s easy to prepare but feels special enough for company
Made with simple pantry ingredients and easy steps
Great for meal prep and leftovers reheat beautifully
The fresh parsley or crispy fried onions on top add a lovely final touch of flavor and texture

Ingredients

Yip: you can find a full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions, thinly sliced
1 pound ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 cups beef broth
8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work well)
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or fried French onions

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 20 minutes.

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks through.

Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.

Add Worcestershire sauce and beef broth, stir to combine, and let simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and onion mixture. Stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until well mixed.

Sprinkle grated Parmesan evenly over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or crispy fried French onions before serving.

Variations

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option
Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies
Use sharp cheddar or Gruyère cheese for a different flavor profile
Stir in a splash of cream or sour cream before baking for extra creaminess
Top with crushed potato chips for a crunchy topping

Heating and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—freeze in portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, rotini, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni work great.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it in the casserole dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I skip the caramelized onions?

You can, but they add a wonderful depth of sweetness that balances the dish perfectly.

How do I get the onions to caramelize properly?

Cook them low and slow, stirring occasionally for about 20 minutes, until they turn golden and soft.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip the cheese topping altogether.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

Soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can work as substitutes.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook pasta until al dente and avoid overbaking the casserole.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach would be tasty additions.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

This Beef and Caramelized Onion Pasta Bake is a timeless comfort dish that combines tender pasta, savory beef, and sweet onions under a blanket of melted cheese. Its balance of flavors and textures makes it a go-to meal for family dinners or casual entertaining. Easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.