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Italian Pasta Bake is a comforting dish that's easy to prepare and packs flavor, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 tbsp Salt for cooking pasta
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Canned tomatoes star ingredient
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil good quality
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp Herbs (dried basil)
  • 1 tsp Oregano dried or fresh
For the Fillings
  • 1 cup Cheese (mozzarella & parmesan) shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan
  • 1 cup Vegetables (bell peppers, spinach) or favorites
  • 1 cup Protein (ground beef, sausage, or chicken) optional
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs for crunchy texture
  • 1 cup Extra cheese optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Italian Pasta Bake
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add canned tomatoes, basil, and oregano. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, mix well with sauce, and add chopped vegetables and protein if using. Transfer to a baking dish.
  4. Layer the Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella over the pasta mixture, followed by parmesan and extra cheese if desired.
  5. Add the Crunchy Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and salt, then sprinkle over cheese layer. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  6. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Ensure pasta is cooked al dente and avoid too much moisture from vegetables for optimal results.

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