Baked Pasta

Baked pasta is a culinary masterpiece that combines al dente pasta with a rich, savory sauce and gooey cheese, creating a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this baked pasta recipe will tantalize your taste buds and leave everyone asking for seconds. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can whip up this comforting dish in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pasta (penne or rigatoni)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Optional: cooked ground beef or sausage

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 450 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, 30g fat, and 5g fiber. This is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and Italian seasoning.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce mixture and stir until well combined.
5. If desired, fold in cooked ground meat for added flavor.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish.
7. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

Feel free to substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option or use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor profile. You can also use homemade sauce if preferred.

Serving and Pairings

Baked pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A glass of red wine also complements the dish beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-covered.

Cooking Mistakes

• Overcooking the pasta before baking can lead to mushiness.
• Not using enough sauce may result in dry baked pasta.
• Forgetting to cover the dish with foil can cause the cheese to burn.
• Using low-quality cheese can affect the overall flavor.
• Not letting it rest before serving can make it messy on the plate.

Helpful Tips

• Experiment with different sauces for varied flavors.
• Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Let the dish cool slightly before serving for better presentation.
• Use a mix of cheeses for a richer taste.

FAQs

Can I make baked pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it before serving.

What types of pasta work best for baking?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are ideal for baked pasta, as they hold onto the sauce well.

Can I add vegetables to my baked pasta?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms enhances both flavor and nutrition.

How do I prevent my baked pasta from drying out?

Ensure you have enough sauce, cover the dish while baking, and avoid overbaking.

Is baked pasta suitable for freezing?

Yes, baked pasta can be frozen. Just ensure it cools completely before packaging it in airtight containers.

Conclusion

Baked pasta is not only a comforting dish but also a versatile one that can easily be adapted to suit your taste. With its hearty flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a delightful meal that brings people together. Enjoy this recipe with loved ones, and savor every bite!

Baked Pasta

A comforting baked pasta dish featuring layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for family gatherings.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: baked pasta, comfort food, Italian cuisine, cheesy dishes

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
• In a large bowl, mix the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and Italian seasoning.
• Add the cooked pasta to the sauce mixture and stir until well combined.
• Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish.
• Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 30g | Fiber: 5g