Looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare? This Italian Pasta Bake is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. Loaded with al dente pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole combines classic Italian flavors into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is a surefire hit!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces penne or ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar of marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation
Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of water with 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta, toss with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Stir in the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the marinara sauce, sprinkle with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, and stir well. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix the Cheese Layer
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the egg, grated Parmesan, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Pasta Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce. Spread the cheese mixture over the sauce evenly.
- Add the remaining pasta and top with the rest of the meat sauce. Finish with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- 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 brown.
Variation
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.
- Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in some provolone or gouda for more cheesy goodness.
- Low Carb: Use zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
Cooking Notes
- Pasta Tips: Slightly undercook the pasta before baking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Cheese Options: If ricotta isn’t your favorite, try using cottage cheese or mascarpone for a creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Italian Pasta Bake with:
- A crisp green salad tossed with balsamic vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or focaccia for dipping
- A glass of Chianti or your favorite Italian red wine
Tips
- Double the recipe and freeze one dish for later; it reheats beautifully!
- Use a mix of beef and pork for a more robust flavor.
- Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the sauce.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
35 minutes
Total Time:
50 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs
1. Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Wrap the assembled, unbaked pasta bake in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Conclusion
This Italian Pasta Bake is an easy, hearty recipe that brings authentic Italian flavors to your table. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a casual family meal, its cheesy, saucy goodness will leave everyone asking for seconds. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a comforting, homemade dinner tonight!