Delicious Pasta Casserole: Comforting, Cheesy, and Easy

Pasta CasserolePhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Pasta casseroles are the epitome of comfort food, combining the heartiness of pasta with rich, flavorful sauces and melted cheese. These dishes are perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.

Get the Recipe Details: Pasta Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or rotini)
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the sauce, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, and cheese.
5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Conclusion

This pasta casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese creates a delicious meal that everyone will love. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile recipe to have in your repertoire. Enjoy this hearty casserole with a side salad and some garlic bread for a complete and delightful meal.

If you have any other recipe requests or need further assistance, feel free to ask! 🍝