Cheesy Pasta Bake Recipe: Quick and Easy
A cheesy pasta bake is more than just a dish—it's a culinary hug that wraps you in the familiar embrace of comfort and satisfaction. Whether you're sharing it with friends, family, or savoring it on your own, this recipe is a celebration of.....
2 min read
Ingredients You'll Need:
2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach (optional)
1/2 cup diced cooked chicken or cooked ground beef (optional)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
As directed on the package, boil the pasta until it is al cooked. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the grated Parmesan, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a creamy cheese mixture.
3. Assemble the Layers:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish. Spread a thin layer of crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish. Over the sauce, spread half of the cooked pasta. Add dollops of the cheese mixture on top of the pasta. If using, sprinkle the chopped spinach and diced cooked chicken or beef over the cheese mixture.
4. Repeat and Top:
Add another layer of crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce over the cheese mixture. Top with the remaining cooked pasta. Over the pasta, pour the remaining sauce. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top.
5. Bake to Perfection:
When the oven is hot, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
6. Broil for Crispy Goodness:
Remove the foil and broil for an additional 3-5 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Take the cheesy pasta bake out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
8. Savory Bliss:
Dish out generous servings of this cheesy pasta bake and watch as the layers of flavors and textures meld together into a comforting masterpiece. Each forkful brings you the warmth of melted cheese, the satisfying bite of pasta, and the deliciousness of a well-balanced medley of ingredients.
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