Description
This ultimate cheesy baked pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish, loaded with layers of gooey melted cheese, rich marinara sauce, and perfectly baked pasta. It’s the ultimate cheesy treat that’s guaranteed to please the whole family!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package directions, draining it when it’s al dente. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the tomato sauce. Add the ricotta cheese (if using) and stir well.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden brown edges.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving.
Notes
- You can add cooked ground beef or sausage for a heartier dish.
- For an extra crispy top, broil the pasta for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6th of the recipe
- Calories: 350-400
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 45mg