4 Easy Baked Pasta Recipes to Keep You Cozy

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm, cheesy, baked pasta dish on a chilly day. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to share with family and friends, baked pasta is always a great choice. These four easy recipes will bring comfort to your table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

1. Classic Baked Ziti

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 pound ground beef or sausage
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
  2. In a pan, cook ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
  3. Mix cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Transfer to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

2. Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
  2. In a large bowl, mix Alfredo sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Combine pasta, chicken, and sauce mixture, then transfer to a baking dish.
  4. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy!

3. Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Pasta Bake

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound rigatoni or penne pasta
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
  2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Combine pasta, marinara sauce, and ricotta mixture, then transfer to a baking dish.
  4. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake for 25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  6. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

4. Meatball Marinara Pasta Bake

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound spaghetti or penne pasta
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 pound pre-cooked meatballs
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
  2. In a baking dish, mix pasta, marinara sauce, and meatballs.
  3. Sprinkle with mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Conclusion

Baked pasta dishes are an easy way to bring comfort and delicious flavors to your table. Whether you prefer a classic baked ziti, a creamy Alfredo bake, a spinach and ricotta blend, or a meaty marinara dish, these recipes are perfect for cozy dinners. Try one tonight and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal!

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