Craving a dish that combines gooey cheese and comforting pasta? This Baked Mozzarella Cheese Pasta is just the solution! It’s perfect for those cozy nights in when you’re looking for something simple yet satisfying. With layers of melty mozzarella and a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Imagine a bubbling casserole dish, hot from the oven, with melted mozzarella stretching as you serve it. This dish not only looks inviting but tastes absolutely delightful, melding flavors that will warm your heart. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Experience the Comfort of Baked Mozzarella Cheese Pasta
Baked Mozzarella Cheese Pasta is a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Imagine a casserole bubbling with rich marinara sauce, surrounded by tender pasta and crowned with layers of golden melted mozzarella. This is the essence of comfort food, capturing the heart of Italian cuisine.
As you prepare this dish, you’ll find that the process is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. The combination of creamy cheese and savory sauce results in a delightful flavor profile that appeals to all ages. It’s a dish that not only fills the stomach but also warms the soul.
The Ingredients That Make It Special
The beauty of Baked Mozzarella Cheese Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. You’ll need a hearty pasta like penne or rigatoni, which holds the sauce beautifully. The marinara sauce, rich and tangy, forms the perfect base, enveloping each piece of pasta.
Generous amounts of mozzarella create that stretchy, gooey texture we all love. A touch of Parmesan adds a sharp note that balances the creaminess. Don’t forget the seasoning! Garlic powder and Italian herbs enhance the dish, bringing it to life with aroma and flavor.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing Baked Mozzarella Cheese Pasta is a breeze. Start by cooking your pasta until it reaches that delightful al dente stage, then drain it and mix it with the marinara sauce and seasonings. This stage allows for the flavors to meld, creating a cohesive dish.
Layering is key when assembling your casserole. By dividing the pasta and cheese into two layers, you ensure that every bite is packed with that delicious cheesy goodness. It’s this attention to detail that makes the dish truly enjoyable.
Perfect Baking for a Golden Finish
Once assembled, the casserole is covered and baked to allow the flavors to deepen. The initial covered baking keeps the moisture in, while the final uncovered stage allows the cheese to achieve that beautiful golden color. It’s a sight to behold, and the aroma wafting through the kitchen is simply inviting.
As the cheese bubbles and begins to brown, anticipation builds. The transformation from raw ingredients to a bubbling dish of deliciousness is both satisfying and rewarding.
A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
Baked Mozzarella Cheese Pasta is versatile enough to be served on various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering of friends, this dish fits the bill perfectly. It’s uncomplicated yet delivers on flavor, making it a favored choice for many.
Garnishing with fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also infuses a hint of freshness to the rich dish. Each serving can be customized, allowing guests to add their preferred herbs or spices, creating a personalized experience.
Nutritional Considerations
This hearty dish serves approximately six, making it ideal for families or meal prepping. With a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, Baked Mozzarella Cheese Pasta provides a wholesome option for those seeking comfort food without sacrificing nutrition.
At around 450 calories per serving, it offers a satisfying portion that can keep you energized throughout the day. The abundance of cheese ensures you get a good dose of calcium, while the pasta serves as a great source of carbohydrates for sustained energy.
A Simple Baked Mozzarella Cheese Pasta Recipe
This Baked Mozzarella Cheese Pasta is a comforting dish that features al dente pasta coated in a rich tomato sauce and topped with generous amounts of melted mozzarella. Each bite bursts with creamy, cheesy goodness that pairs perfectly with the savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy delight!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 58g