If you’re craving comfort food at its finest, this Ultimate Cheesy Baked Pasta is just what you need. It’s packed with gooey melted cheese, a rich tomato sauce, and perfectly baked pasta, all coming together to create the most irresistible dish. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a gathering, this cheesy pasta will quickly become a favorite. It’s indulgent, easy to make, and every bite is pure cheesy bliss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Cheesy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying
- Easy to prepare with everyday ingredients
- A versatile dish you can customize with your favorite add-ins
- Perfectly baked with a golden, bubbly top
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 1 pound penne or rigatoni pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (or homemade if preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for added richness)
Full list of ingredients with measurements below!
Cook the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, but stop just before it’s fully cooked (al dente). Drain the pasta and toss it with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent it from sticking.
Make the Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Pour in the marinara sauce, and stir in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors. If you like a creamier sauce, add the heavy cream at this point, stirring it in until smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring gently to coat the pasta completely. If you used ricotta cheese, stir it in now for extra creaminess.
Layer with Cheese
Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese on top, covering the entire surface. You can add a little more cheese if you’re really craving that extra cheesy goodness!
Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the pasta for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, just be sure to watch it closely.
Garnish and Serve
Once your cheesy baked pasta is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Make sure your pasta is al dente before baking. Since it will cook a bit more in the oven, this ensures it doesn’t become too soft or mushy.
- For a fun twist, try mixing in some cooked ground beef, sausage, or grilled chicken for added protein.
- If you’re a fan of extra cheese, don’t hesitate to add a bit more mozzarella or even some provolone for a different flavor.
- For a smoky touch, add some cooked bacon or pancetta to the sauce mixture before baking.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- For a vegetarian version, load up the pasta with vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- Swap out the ricotta for cream cheese or mascarpone for a different creamy texture.
- Use a gluten-free pasta if you need to make this dish gluten-free.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or stir in some chopped jalapeños.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Ultimate Cheesy Baked Pasta pairs perfectly with:
- A fresh Caesar or mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Crispy garlic bread or buttery baguette slices for dipping
- A glass of red wine, like a light Chianti or Merlot, to complement the rich flavors
- A side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, for a well-rounded meal
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover cheesy baked pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. You may want to add a little sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating for that fresh-baked look!
FAQs
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven and bake as usual.
Can I freeze this cheesy baked pasta?
Definitely! After baking and cooling, wrap the pasta tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to swap in any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, rotini, and ziti are all great alternatives. Just make sure to cook it al dente before baking.
Can I add meat to this dish?
Absolutely! Ground beef, sausage, or even some grilled chicken would be great additions. Just brown the meat before adding it to the sauce.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Cheesy Baked Pasta is everything you could want in a comfort food dish—cheesy, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for feeding a family or serving at a gathering. With layers of gooey cheese and rich marinara sauce, this pasta dish is sure to be a new favorite at your dinner table!
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Cheese Lover’s Dream: The Ultimate Baked Pasta Delight
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ultimate Cheesy Baked Pasta is a comfort food lover’s dream. This rich and creamy pasta dish is loaded with melty cheeses, savory marinara sauce, and a perfectly baked golden top. It’s the perfect meal for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta gives every bite a cheesy, decadent experience.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and marinara sauce. Stir in the cheese mixture and mix until the pasta is well coated.
- Assemble the Baked Pasta: Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, along with red pepper flakes if using.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped basil and enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to add cooked ground meat (beef, turkey, or sausage) for added protein.
- For a crispier top, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and substitute the heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
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