Welcome to the warm and wonderful world of comfort food! I can’t express enough how much I adore this easy delish recipe for baked pasta. It’s one of those meals that wraps you up in a cozy hug, making every bite feel like home. Whether you’re coming in from a chilly day, winding down after a long week, or just craving something simple yet satisfying, this dish is here for you. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal fuss. Trust me, you’ll love how quickly it comes together!

Imagine the aroma of marinara sauce mingling with melted cheese and fresh veggies wafting through your kitchen. It’s a delightful experience that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy gatherings. Plus, this recipe is so versatile—you can easily customize it with whatever you have on hand. Throw in some leftover chicken, switch out the veggies, or even use gluten-free pasta if you need! The best part? It all bakes in one dish, so cleanup is a breeze. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Ingredients List

Before we get cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful baked pasta:

• 2 cups of cooked pasta: Any shape you like—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti works beautifully. Just cook it according to the package instructions and drain it well.
• 1 cup of marinara sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous. This adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• 1 cup of shredded cheese: I love mozzarella for its meltiness, but feel free to mix in some parmesan or cheddar for extra flavor!
• 1/2 cup of diced vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, or whatever veggies you have on hand—this is a great way to use up odds and ends in your fridge!
• 1 tsp of Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs really brings it all together. If you don’t have it, a mix of oregano and basil works just as well.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper elevate the flavors.

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation. Don’t worry, it’s as easy as pie—or should I say, as easy as baked pasta!

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for getting that cheese all melty and delicious!
2. Mix the pasta and sauce: In a large bowl, combine your cooked pasta with the marinara sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta gets a nice coating. It’s like giving each noodle a warm hug!
3. Add the cheese and veggies: Next, stir in the shredded cheese and diced vegetables. I usually fold them in gently so that the cheese doesn’t clump together. You want every bite to be cheesy and flavorful!
4. Season it up: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix to ensure all those flavors are well combined. Taste a little—yum!
5. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour your pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it bakes nicely.
6. Bake it: Pop your dish in the oven and let it bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it; it will smell heavenly!
7. Cool and serve: Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set a bit and makes it easier to scoop onto plates.

And there you have it! A comforting, easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked pasta dish is not just any meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings comfort and satisfaction to your table. Here are a few reasons why I know you’ll adore it:

• Comforting flavors: The combination of marinara sauce, melted cheese, and tender pasta is like a warm hug in a bowl.
• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• One-dish wonder: Everything cooks together in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze—who doesn’t love that?
• Endless customization: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies, proteins, or cheeses. It’s a versatile recipe that adapts to what you have on hand.
• Perfect for leftovers: This dish tastes just as good (if not better!) the next day, so you can enjoy it all over again.

Tips for Success

To ensure your baked pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips to keep in mind:

• Cook pasta al dente: Make sure to cook your pasta just until it’s al dente. It will continue cooking in the oven, so you want it to have a little bite left!
• Grease the dish: Don’t skip greasing your baking dish! A little olive oil or cooking spray will prevent sticking and make serving easier.
• Watch the bake time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your pasta during the last few minutes of baking. You want that cheese to be bubbly and golden, but not burnt!
• Let it cool: Give your dish a few minutes to cool before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
• Safety first: Always use oven mitts when handling hot dishes, and let any leftovers cool before storing them in the fridge.

With these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love!

Ingredient Notes/Substitutions

Let’s talk about some ingredient swaps to make this baked pasta fit your dietary needs or simply to work with what you have at home. Here are a few ideas:

• Pasta: If you’re gluten-sensitive, use gluten-free pasta. There are many great options available that cook up just as nicely!
• Marinara sauce: If you prefer a lighter sauce, try a homemade basil pesto or even a creamy alfredo sauce for a twist!
• Cheese: For a dairy-free alternative, use a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Vegetables: Feel free to swap in any veggies you like—spinach, mushrooms, or even broccoli would work wonderfully!
• Protein: For added protein, toss in some cooked chicken, turkey, or even canned beans like chickpeas or black beans.

These substitutions help you customize the dish while still keeping it delicious and comforting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve enjoyed your baked pasta, you’ll likely have some delicious leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat them so they taste just as delightful the next day!

• Storing leftovers: Allow the baked pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh!
• Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in a baking dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and warm it for about 15–20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1–2 minutes, checking to make sure it’s warmed evenly.

With these simple steps, you can savor your comforting baked pasta goodness even after the first serving!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for a serving of this comforting baked pasta. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients used:

• Calories: Approximately 350
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 3g

This baked pasta is a satisfying meal that balances comfort and nutrition, making it a great choice for any day of the week!

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions I often hear about this easy delish recipe for baked pasta, along with my answers to help you out:

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake it. It’s a great way to save time on busy days!

What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
No worries! You can use any pasta sauce you like—store-bought Alfredo, homemade pesto, or even a simple olive oil and garlic mix will work wonderfully.

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the sauce or mixing in some diced jalapeños or spicy sausage. It’ll give your baked pasta a delightful kick!

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Once cooled, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! It’s a vegetarian-friendly dish, but feel free to add cooked meat or beans for extra protein if you’d like. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Easy Delish Recipes: 7 Comforting Meals to Cherish Forever

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This recipe offers a simple and tasty way to enjoy a comforting meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups of cooked pasta
• 1 cup of marinara sauce
• 1 cup of shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup of diced vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini)
• 1 tsp of Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with marinara sauce, cheese, and vegetables.
3. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
5. Bake for 20 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• You can use gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Substitute cheese with a dairy-free option for a vegan dish.
• Add cooked chicken or beans for extra protein.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: easy delish recipes