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
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 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.
- Mix & Simmer: Pour in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- 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.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 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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