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Pasta Bake

A warm, cheesy pasta bake that is simple to prepare and packed with flavor, perfect for cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini) Choose a pasta with ridges to grab sauce better.
  • 2 cups Cherry tomatoes Sweet and burst when baked.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Adds aroma and flavor.
  • 1 small Onion Sautéed with garlic for flavor.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella cheese For melt.
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese Use on top for browning.
  • 1/2 cup Cream cheese, ricotta or sour cream For a creamy element.
  • 1 cup Bacon bits, pepperoni, or chopped ham Optional salty element.
  • 1 tbsp Basil or Italian seasoning Fresh or dried herbs for flavor.
  • 1 splash Cream or milk (for sauce) Helps create a rich sauce.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, sauté the garlic and onion in a skillet until soft.
  4. Roast or sauté the cherry tomatoes until they start to wrinkle.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed garlic and onion, roasted tomatoes, mozzarella, parmesan, creamy element, and any optional salty ingredients.
  6. Mix in herbs and add any desired sauce ingredients.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle additional parmesan on top.
  8. Bake for 25-35 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

Allow the pasta bake to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps the dish set up and makes it easier to slice. Line a sheet pan with foil below to catch any bubbling cheese.