easy baked pasta recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best easy baked pasta recipe

I’ve been making this easy baked pasta recipe for years, and it’s still a favorite in my household. The dish is a classic Italian comfort food that never fails to please.

It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be made with just a few ingredients, and it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. My kids love helping me make it, and they always get excited when they see the cheesy, golden-brown goodness coming out of the oven.

I think what I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can customize it with your favorite toppings or leftovers, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to other comfort foods, with plenty of veggies and whole grains to keep everyone full and satisfied.

I’ve served it at family gatherings, potlucks, and even just on a random Tuesday night, and it always gets rave reviews. The best part?

It’s so easy to make! Just toss all the ingredients together in one pan, pop it in the oven, and voila – dinner is served.

No fuss, no muss – just pure comfort food bliss.

Easy Baked Pasta

4.6 from 649 votes

A simple and hearty baked pasta dish with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz (225g) penne or other short pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt

For the Sauce

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Topping

1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes, following package directions.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
5While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly.
8Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
9Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
10Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet and stir until evenly coated.
11Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
12Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
13Bake the pasta in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly golden.
14Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large skillet
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 16g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 750mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, add 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese in layers with the pasta. You can also substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Watch Video Of How Easy Baked Pasta Works

This easy baked pasta recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for family gatherings. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can scale it up or down depending on your needs – want to feed a crowd?

Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly! Want to have some leftovers for later?

Just cook up a bit more pasta and sauce and stash them away for another day.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Pasta

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

A: You can use any short pasta shape you like, such as penne, ziti, or rotini. The key is to choose something that holds onto the sauce well so you get that perfect balance of flavors in every bite.

Q: Can I customize this recipe with my favorite toppings?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is all about flexibility and customization. Feel free to add your favorite meats (like pepperoni or sausage), veggies (like spinach or bell peppers), or cheeses (like mozzarella or parmesan) to make it your own.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: Yes! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by swapping out the meatballs for some sautéed mushrooms or roasted eggplant.

Q: How do I store leftovers of this dish?

A: Store leftover baked pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months. When reheating, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the dish before baking – just keep an eye on the cooking time as the pasta may release more liquid than usual after being refrigerated overnight.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

Similar Posts