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Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole Recipe
Craving a hearty meal that combines the comfort of pasta with the gooey goodness of melted cheese? This baked pasta casserole is just the answer! It’s a fantastic dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also provides the perfect opportunity for meal prep. Simply cook pasta and mix with sauce and cooked meat, layer in a casserole dish with cheese, and you’re on your way to a delicious dinner.
Serve with hearty vegetable soup for a balanced dinner.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for the week, this casserole is a time-saver. You can cover and refrigerate or freeze the assembled dish, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven for a comforting meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Pair with chicken pot pie for a cozy meal.
The Ultimate Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole
Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole Recipe
Course: Family Meal PrepCuisine: Italian-American, Comfort FoodDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes30
minutes450
kcalThis baked pasta casserole is a delightful blend of tender pasta, savory meat, and rich tomato sauce, all layered with melty cheese. Each bite is a comforting combination of flavors and textures, sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work well)
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage, cooked and drained
2 cups marinara sauce
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat with marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce, and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and Store: At this point, you can cover and refrigerate or freeze the casserole if you’re not baking it right away. If freezing, make sure to wrap it tightly.
- Bake: When ready to serve, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover the casserole and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley and serving hot.
Key Prep Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Boil pasta until slightly underdone (al dente) to prevent it from becoming mushy while baking.
- Layer with Care: Layer the pasta, sauce, and cheese evenly for a perfect balance of flavors in each bite.
- Use a Mix of Cheeses: Combine mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta or cottage cheese for a creamy and melty texture.
- Cover and Bake: Cover with foil for the first 20-25 minutes to ensure the cheese doesn’t burn, then uncover to brown the top.
Suggested Variations
- Protein Additions: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, shredded chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a heartier dish.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
- Spice It Up: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Sauce Options: Use marinara, Alfredo, or a mix of both for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Complete Meal: Pair with a fresh Caesar salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.
- With Sides: Serve with garlic bread or a side of roasted asparagus.
- Beverages: Complement with a glass of red wine, sparkling water, or iced tea.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a polished look.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an additional 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven for best results.