Mouthwatering Pasta Bake: A Comforting Casserole

Pasta BakePhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Pasta bake is a comforting and versatile dish that brings together the best of pasta, sauce, and cheese in one delicious casserole. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.

Get the Recipe Details: Pasta Bake Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Cooking the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Making the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
4. Combining Ingredients: Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Assembling the Casserole: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and meat sauce. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Baking: 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 and the top is golden brown.
7. Serving: Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Conclusion

This pasta bake is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of a hearty meat sauce with the comforting texture of baked pasta and melted cheese. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and the comforting warmth of this classic pasta bake with your loved ones!