Beef and Broccoli Pasta Bake

This Beef and Broccoli Pasta Bake combines traditional Italian flavors with a creative twist. Ground beef is sautéed with garlic and tender broccoli, then layered with a rich pasta sauce and baked with a sprinkle of cheese on top. It's a comforting dish that balances the savory meatiness with the freshness of broccoli, making it a delightful family meal that is also easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups pasta sauce
• 8 ounces pasta (such as rotini or penne)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
6. Stir in the pasta sauce and cooked pasta until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Beef and Broccoli Pasta Bake!