This one-dish baked pasta is a hearty and satisfying meal that combines pasta, sauce, and cheese all in one convenient dish. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, as it requires minimal cleanup and is sure to please a crowd.
The recipe is simple and can be customized with your choice of proteins and vegetables. It’s a great way to use up leftovers or pantry staples.
Overview of Baked Pasta
Baked pasta is a comforting dish that brings together the best of Italian cuisine.
With layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and savory ground meat, it creates a satisfying meal that appeals to many.
The golden melted cheese on top adds a delightful texture and flavor, making it a favorite for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Using al dente pasta, such as penne or rotini, ensures a perfect bite amidst the sauce and cheese.
Ground beef or Italian sausage provides a hearty protein base, while a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a creamy, cheesy topping that is hard to resist.
Seasoning with Italian herbs elevates the dish, bringing warmth and depth to each layer.
Fresh basil or parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.
Preparation Steps
Creating this baked pasta is straightforward and can be done in about 50 minutes.
Start by preheating the oven and cooking the pasta until it reaches the perfect al dente texture.
While the pasta cooks, brown the ground meat in a skillet, allowing it to develop rich flavors.
Once the pasta and meat are ready, combine them with marinara sauce and ricotta cheese in a large mixing bowl.
Layering the mixture in a baking dish with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Covering the dish while baking helps the flavors meld beautifully, while removing the cover towards the end allows the cheese to achieve that golden, bubbly finish.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before serving.
Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley adds a refreshing touch and enhances the dish’s presentation.
Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This baked pasta is versatile enough for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or special occasions.
Its ability to serve a crowd makes it an excellent choice for gatherings, and it can easily be customized with different proteins or vegetables based on personal preferences.
Whether you’re using leftovers or pantry staples, this dish adapts well to what you have on hand, making it a practical option for busy cooks.
Nutrition and Benefits
Not only is this baked pasta delicious, but it also provides a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats.
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, making it a hearty option without being overly indulgent.
The combination of ingredients ensures that it is not only satisfying but also nourishing, making it a great choice for families looking to enjoy a wholesome meal together.
Easy One-Dish Baked Pasta Recipe
This baked pasta features al dente pasta mixed with marinara sauce, ground meat, and a blend of cheeses, all baked until bubbly and golden. The recipe takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned meat, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Layer the Dish: Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the baked pasta cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g