Indulge in the warm and cheesy goodness of this classic baked pasta dish. Layers of pasta, marinara sauce, creamy cheese, and savory herbs come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the baked pasta cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Baked pasta dishes date back to ancient Rome where they were often made with a mixture of pasta, cheese, and breadcrumbs.
The combination of cheese and pasta in baked dishes is not only delicious but also provides a great source of protein and calcium.
Leftover baked pasta can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for a quick and easy meal the next day.