CHEESY PASTA BAKE
Cheesy Pasta Bake is a warm, comforting dish loaded with gooey melted cheese, tender pasta, and a savoury tomato sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it’s a family-favourite meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta penne, ziti, or rotini
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Assemble the Bake:
- In a large bowl, mix pasta with sauce and ricotta cheese. Transfer to a baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Assemble ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Variation: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or vegetables for extra flavour.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.