Quick and Easy Cheesy Pasta Bake: A Comforting Weeknight Favorite
When you’re in need of a satisfying and speedy dinner solution, our Quick and Easy Cheesy Pasta Bake recipe comes to the rescue. This dish combines al dente pasta, rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef (or a vegetarian alternative), and layers of melted cheese for a comforting and delicious meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving classic comfort food, this pasta bake is a family-friendly crowd-pleaser that’s ready in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Ingredients:
For the Cheesy Pasta Bake:
- 12 ounces (about 3 cups) pasta of your choice (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work well)
- 1 pound ground beef (or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 ounces (about 3 cups) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef (or Plant-Based Meat): 3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef (or plant-based meat) until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the dried Italian seasoning (or blend of dried herbs), and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet, stirring to combine with the meat mixture. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Assemble the Cheesy Pasta Bake: 7. In the greased baking dish, spread half of the cooked pasta evenly on the bottom.
- Top the pasta with half of the meat and sauce mixture.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the meat and sauce layer.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat and sauce mixture, and cheeses.
Bake and Finish: 11. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pasta bake is heated through and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to get that irresistible golden crust.
Serve and Garnish: 14. Once out of the oven, let the Cheesy Pasta Bake rest for a few minutes before serving.
- If desired, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Cook’s Notes:
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat and sauce mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Customize the type of cheese to your liking. Cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses can be delicious alternatives.
- To make it extra indulgent, you can add a layer of ricotta cheese or cream cheese between the pasta layers.
Quick and Easy Cheesy Pasta Bake is a go-to recipe for busy weeknights when you crave a hearty and comforting meal. With layers of pasta, savory meat (or plant-based alternative), flavorful tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a classic favorite that never disappoints. Gather your loved ones, serve up this delicious bake, and watch it disappear with smiles all around the table!
