Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until it's browned. Drain any excess fat for a healthier option.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant.
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. If you’re adding mixed vegetables, toss them in too!
In a large baking dish, combine your cooked pasta with the savory meat mixture. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Top the mixture with your choice of shredded cheese, covering it generously.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Let it cool slightly before serving—you’ll want to savor every cheesy, meaty bite!