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Baked Pasta Casserole with Tomato Sauce and Cheese

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Baked Pasta Casserole with Tomato Sauce and Cheese is a comforting and hearty dish made by layering pasta with rich tomato sauce and a blend of cheeses, then baked until bubbly and golden.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, ziti, or rigatoni)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional)
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  4. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
  6. Combine the cooked pasta with the tomato sauce and stir in half the mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese.
  7. If using ricotta or cottage cheese, layer half the pasta mixture into the baking dish, spread the ricotta on top, then add the remaining pasta.
  8. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
  9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • You can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or vegetables for variety.
  • Make it ahead and refrigerate before baking for a quick weeknight meal.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked pasta, pasta casserole, tomato sauce, cheesy pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://yumcove.com/baked-pasta-casserole-with-tomato-sauce-and-cheese/