Cheesy Layered Pasta Bake

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

This Cheesy Layered Pasta Bake is the kind of hearty, homemade dish that brings everyone to the table. With layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and tangy tomato sauce, it’s everything you crave in a classic Italian-inspired baked pasta dinner. Perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or stress-free make-ahead meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in comfort, low in hassle – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps

• Rich in cheesy goodness – Features three types of cheese

• Perfect for make-ahead meals – Reheats beautifully

• Family-friendly – Even picky eaters will ask for seconds

• Budget-conscious – Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients

Ingredients Breakdown

Pasta & Base:

• 12 oz penne or rigatoni, cooked al dente – The sturdy shape holds sauce and cheese in every bite.

Tomato Sauce Layer:

• 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.

• 1 onion, finely chopped – Brings savory depth and sweetness.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Boosts the flavor with aromatic intensity.

• 2 cups tomato passata or crushed tomatoes – A smooth, rich tomato base.

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A classic blend of herbs for balanced flavor.

• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasoning to enhance every layer.

Cheese Layers:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese – Creamy and mild; adds soft, rich texture between pasta layers.

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully and adds gooeyness.

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, salty depth to the top layer.

Optional Garnish:

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley – Brightens and freshens the final dish.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the pasta – It will soften more as it bakes

• Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture

• Broil for 2 minutes at the end for an extra crispy top

• Drain excess liquid from the sauce if it seems too watery before layering

Delicious Variations

• Add protein: Ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal

• Make it vegetarian: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini

• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce

• Swap the cheese: Use provolone or fontina for a different cheesy profile

Pairing Suggestions

• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks

• Crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with vinaigrette

• Red wine, iced tea, or sparkling water

• Roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots for balance

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months

• Reheat: Bake at 350°F until warm, or microwave single portions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pasta bake up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What’s the best pasta shape to use?

Penne and rigatoni work best, but ziti, shells, or fusilli also hold the sauce well.

Can I use store-bought sauce?

Absolutely. Substitute 2 cups of your favorite marinara or pasta sauce if short on time

Cheesy Layered Pasta Bake

---

• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This cheesy layered pasta bake features tender penne, creamy ricotta, rich tomato sauce, and bubbling layers of mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s a comforting, oven-baked classic perfect for weeknights or cozy weekends in

Advertisements

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta, cooked al dente

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups tomato passata or crushed tomatoes

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Make the Sauce

• In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

• Add chopped onion and cook until softened (about 3–4 minutes).

• Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

• Add tomato passata, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

• Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Assemble the Layers

• Spread a thin layer of sauce over the bottom of the baking dish.

• Add a layer of cooked pasta.

• Dot with spoonfuls of ricotta, then sprinkle with mozzarella and spoon on more sauce.

• Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.

• Finish with a final layer of sauce, then top with remaining mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese.

4. Bake

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

• Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

5. Cool and Garnish

• Let the bake rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

• Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley, if desired.

Notes

• For extra cheesiness, double the mozzarella and add a layer in the middle.

• Always let the pasta bake rest before serving—it helps everything set up nicely.

• This dish is perfect for potlucks, freezer meals, and Sunday dinners.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?