Super Easy Pasta Bake

Super Easy Pasta Bake

Pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food—warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor. This easy pasta bake recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or when you need a simple yet satisfying meal. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s sure to be a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Pasta Bake

  • Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients and minimal prep.
  • Versatile: Customize with your favorite proteins and veggies.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance and bake when ready.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a family or a gathering.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef or sausage (if using) and cook until browned. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
  4. Mix & Simmer: Pour in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Assemble: Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Layer half of the pasta mixture in the baking dish, top with ricotta cheese (if using), and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat layers.
  6. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

  • Make it Vegetarian: Swap meat for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
  • Add Spice: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a kick.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta.
  • Extra Creamy: Stir in a little heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Assemble the dish and freeze before baking for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

This easy recipe is a meal the whole family will love. It’s hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for the ultimate cozy dinner!

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Macaroni Pasta

Arrabiata Pasta

Homemade Fresh Pasta



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