Simple Cheesy Baked Pasta

Simple Cheesy Baked Pasta

Have you ever wondered how a comforting dish like Simple Cheesy Baked Pasta can elevate your weeknight dinners while delighting your family’s taste buds? With studies showing that shared meals can strengthen family bonds and improve communication, this simple and delicious recipe can become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s delve into creating this cheesy delight that promises to impress without the fuss.

Ingredients List

To prepare your Simple Cheesy Baked Pasta, gather the following ingredients:

• Pasta: 3 cups (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite type)
• Cheese Blend: 2 cups (mozzarella for creaminess, cheddar for flavor, and parmesan for a touch of sharpness)
• Marinara Sauce: 2 cups (store-bought or homemade)
• Cream Cheese: 4 oz (for extra creaminess; can be replaced with ricotta)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Onion: 1 small, diced (or use shallots for a milder taste)
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (feel free to sprinkle in your favorite herbs like basil or oregano)
• Salt and Pepper: to taste
• Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (optional, for a crispy topping; panko works well too)

Further Substitutions:

• Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to increase flavor and nutritional value.
• Protein: Mix in cooked chicken, sausage, or keep it vegetarian with lentils.

Timing

Preparing your Simple Cheesy Baked Pasta is quick and efficient!

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

This is approximately 20% less time than the average baked pasta recipe, making it a smart choice for busy evenings while still delivering comfort food satisfaction.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Boil a large pot of salted water, adding your pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Remember, you’ll continue cooking it in the oven, so don’t overdo it!

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

• While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed onions, marinara sauce, cream cheese, and half of your cheese blend. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

• Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference!

Step 5: Bake the Pasta

• Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese blend and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if using. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve

• Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps firm up the cheese and make serving easier!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a comprehensive look at the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg

A flavorful dish that harmonizes comfort and nutrition!

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

1. Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap regular pasta for whole wheat for added fiber and nutrients.
2. Low-Fat Cheese Options: Use low-fat cheese or dairy alternatives to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.
3. Add More Vegetables: You can add zucchini, broccoli, or carrots, which not only enhance nutrition but also add delightful textures.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Simple Cheesy Baked Pasta with:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the extra sauce!
• Salad: A fresh side salad can complement the dish superbly.
• Wine Pairings: Red wines like Chianti or Parziale bring out the flavors while keeping the meal sophisticated.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure it’s al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.
2. Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this can lead to uneven baking; always preheat before popping your dish in.
3. Skipping the Resting Time: Be patient after baking! Allowing it to set helps the pasta hold together.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Leftovers: Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze portions for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.
• Meal Prep: Consider making a double batch and freezing one for those last-minute meal days.

Conclusion

Your journey to crafting a delightful Simple Cheesy Baked Pasta is just a recipe away. With ease of preparation, rich flavors, and a crowd-pleasing profile, this dish is perfect for any dinner occasion. Try it out this week and surprise your loved ones! Don’t forget to share your experiences and ideas in the comments below.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead, assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep this recipe friendly for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Definitely! Cooked ground beef, chicken, or sausage can be incorporated with the pasta mixture for a protein boost.

With these insights and steps, you are all set to enjoy a warming plate of Simple Cheesy Baked Pasta that feels like a hug in a dish! Happy cooking!

Simple Cheesy Baked Pasta

A comforting and easy-to-make baked pasta dish, perfect for family dinners with a blend of cheeses and marinara sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite type)
• 2 cups Cheese Blend (mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan) Mozzarella for creaminess, cheddar for flavor, and parmesan for a touch of sharpness.
• 2 cups Marinara Sauce Store-bought or homemade.
• 4 oz Cream Cheese For extra creaminess; can be replaced with ricotta.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 small Onion, diced Or use shallots for a milder taste.
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Feel free to add your favorite herbs like basil or oregano.
• to taste Salt and Pepper
• 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Optional, for a crispy topping; panko works well too.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Boil a large pot of salted water, adding your pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
• While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed onions, marinara sauce, cream cheese, and half of your cheese blend. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
• Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference!
• Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese blend and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if using.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
• Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For added nutrients, consider adding vegetables like chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also mix in cooked chicken or sausage for a protein boost.

Keyword baked pasta, Cheesy Pasta, Comfort Food, Easy Pasta Recipe

Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest