Hearty Italian Pasta Bake: A Cheesy Delight You Can’t Resist

Photo byMK Madhavi

There's something undeniably comforting about a hearty Italian pasta bake. It’s a meal that brings families together around the table, with its layers of rich, cheesy goodness and robust flavors. Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, this Italian pasta bake is the perfect choice. Combining tender pasta, savory meat, and a medley of cheeses, this dish is baked to bubbly perfection.

The Italian pasta bake is one of those recipes that never disappoints. It's easy to make, and its ingredients are simple yet full of flavor. The blend of marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a sauce that clings to each piece of pasta, delivering a burst of Italian-inspired deliciousness in every bite. And with the addition of melted mozzarella and Parmesan, it’s practically impossible to resist!

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can choose to use beef, turkey, or even a pork substitute, making it adaptable to your preferences. It's also a great dish for meal prep, as it holds up well in the fridge and reheats beautifully. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread, and you have a complete meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Recipe: Italian Pasta Bake

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne or rigatoni pasta
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey (or substitute with pork)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook your pasta until it's just al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
4. Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, ensuring every piece of pasta is well coated.
6. Assemble the Dish: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture. Sprinkle half of the Parmesan and 1 cup of mozzarella over the top. Add the remaining pasta, then sprinkle the rest of the cheeses on top.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Allow the pasta bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and enjoy!

The Finishing Touch:

This Italian pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese makes it a dish that everyone will love. It’s simple enough to make on a weeknight, yet hearty enough to impress at a dinner party. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a meal that’s full of flavor and sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe Sources:

• Serious Eats - Pasta Bakes
• AllRecipes - Baked Pasta
• Bon Appétit - Baked Pasta