Hearty Pasta Bake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350.
2. 2
   Cook pasta until al dente.
3. 3
   While pasta is cooking --
4. 4
   Melt the butter and oil in a medium-sized heavy skillet.
5. 5
   Saute the onion over medium heat until just starting to turn soft.
6. 6
   ** If using green pepper, add with onion.
7. 7
   Add garlic and saute for another 1-2 minutes; do not burn garlic.
8. 8
   Remove garlic and onion from pan and set aside.
9. 9
   In same pan, brown ground beef over medium-high heat.
10. 10
    When browned, reduce heat to medium return onion/garlic mixture to pan.
11. 11
    Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and water.
12. 12
    Crumble the cubito into the mix.
13. 13
    Add oregano and basil (and red pepper flakes if desired).
14. 14
    Add salt and pepper in suggested quantities and adjust to taste.
15. 15
    Transfer contents of skillet to a 2-quart casserole.
16. 16
    Stir in the cheddar cheese.
17. 17
    Sprinkle top with mozzarella and parmesan.
18. 18
    Bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes, until lightly browned.