Pasta Bake
Indulge in the comforting goodness of pasta bake, a dish that combines tender pasta, savory sauces, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. This hearty meal is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta bake is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
– 300g penne pasta
– 400g marinara sauce
– 200g ground beef (or turkey)
– 150g mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 100g parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
4. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
7. Mix in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
8. Combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture in a large bowl.
9. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
10. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground chicken or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option. You can also use different types of pasta, such as fusilli or rotini, and swap marinara sauce for alfredo for a creamy twist.
Serving and Pairings
Pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A glass of red wine can enhance the meal experience, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushiness.
- Not draining excess fat from the meat can make the dish greasy.
- Using low-quality cheese may affect flavor and texture.
- Skipping the spices can result in blandness.
- Not allowing the dish to rest before serving can cause it to fall apart.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses for added flavor.
- Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for nutrition.
- Make it ahead of time and bake just before serving.
- Use a mix of fresh and dried herbs for a more complex flavor.
FAQs
Can I make pasta bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta bake a day in advance. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it when ready to serve for a convenient meal.
What types of pasta work best for pasta bake?
Short pasta varieties like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best as they hold the sauce well and maintain a good texture after baking.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta is a great option for those with dietary restrictions, and it works well in pasta bake recipes.
How can I make pasta bake vegetarian?
Simply omit the meat and add more vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also include beans for added protein.
Is pasta bake suitable for freezing?
Yes, pasta bake can be frozen. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Pasta bake is a versatile and comforting dish that brings warmth to your table. With endless variations and easy preparation, it’s the perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. Try this recipe, and enjoy the delicious flavors and textures that make pasta bake a beloved classic!
Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 300 g penne pasta
- 400 g marinara sauce
- 200 g ground beef
- 150 g mozzarella cheese shredded
- 100 g parmesan cheese grated
- 1 onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Mix in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture in a large bowl.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.