Cheesy Pasta Bake
This comforting cheesy pasta bake is loaded with gooey melted cheese and a rich tomato sauce, making it a guaranteed hit for family dinners. It is a hearty, oven-baked dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table.
- Prep time: 12 minutes
- Cook time: 13 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Boil the pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente, then drain.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with marinara, garlic powder, basil, and half of the mozzarella.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and dollop the ricotta over the top.
- Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Tips
- Undercook the pasta by two minutes, as it will continue to soften while baking in the sauce.
- Add a handful of fresh baby spinach to the sauce for an easy nutritional boost.
- Let the dish sit for 5 minutes after removing from the oven to allow the sauce to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add meat to this?
Yes, browned Italian sausage or ground beef are great additions to the sauce.
How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
Cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes, then uncover for the final 5 minutes.
What is the best pasta shape?
Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best because they hold the sauce in their ridges.