This four cheese baked pasta is a rich and indulgent dish that combines the flavors of mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and ricotta. It’s perfect for a comforting family meal or a special occasion.
The recipe is simple to follow and can be prepared in under an hour. You can also customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Creating the Perfect Four Cheese Baked Pasta
This four cheese baked pasta is a delightful dish that promises to satisfy your cravings for comfort food.
With a combination of mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and ricotta, each bite is a creamy explosion of flavor.
The rich marinara sauce adds a tangy depth, making it a well-rounded meal that is sure to impress.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key to this dish lies in its ingredients.
Using high-quality cheeses will elevate the flavor profile significantly.
The blend of cheeses not only provides a variety of textures but also a rich taste that complements the pasta beautifully.
Don’t forget the marinara sauce; it serves as the perfect base, tying all the elements together.
Fresh parsley as a garnish adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens the dish.
Cooking Techniques for Success
Start by cooking the pasta until it reaches al dente.
This ensures that it holds its shape and texture after baking.
Mixing the cheeses with garlic and onion powder enhances the flavor, making each spoonful delightful.
When combining the pasta with the sauce and cheese mixture, ensure everything is evenly coated.
This step is crucial for achieving a harmonious blend of flavors throughout the dish.
Baking to Perfection
Baking is where the magic happens.
Covering the dish with aluminum foil initially helps to keep the moisture in, allowing the pasta to cook through without drying out.
Removing the foil towards the end allows the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown, creating a crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
Serving Suggestions for a Cozy Meal
Once out of the oven, let the dish cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley.
This not only adds visual appeal but also a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the cheese.
Pairing this baked pasta with a glass of red wine enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for a cozy evening.
Customizing Your Dish
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste.
Consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
For those who enjoy a bit of protein, incorporating cooked chicken or sausage can make this dish even heartier.
Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations or sauces to make it your own.
The possibilities are endless, ensuring that each time you prepare this dish, it can be a unique experience.
Delicious Four Cheese Baked Pasta
This baked pasta features al dente pasta mixed with a creamy cheese sauce and topped with a blend of four cheeses that melt beautifully in the oven. The dish takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the Cheese Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large baking dish, mix the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce and the cheese mixture until evenly coated.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top, followed by the grated parmesan.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g