A hearty and flavorful baked pasta dish that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Greasing the dish prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking together.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, then remove and set aside.
Break up the beef with a spatula for even cooking.
In the same skillet, sauté the celery, onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms with a pinch of salt until softened.
Cook the vegetables until they release their moisture and become tender.
Add the garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, and black pepper to the skillet and cook until fragrant.
Stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, bring to a simmer, and cook for 5 minutes.
Simmering helps the flavors meld together.
Combine the cooked beef with the sauce and pour over the pasta in the baking dish.
Spread the sauce evenly over the pasta for consistent flavor.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Check the dish halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooling allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
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