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Cheesy Layered Pasta Bake

Cheesy Layered Pasta Bake


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

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


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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