Easy Cheesy Pasta Casserole
This Easy Cheesy Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Loaded with gooey cheese, hearty pasta, and a rich tomato meat sauce, it’s a family-friendly dish that’s easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients List
– 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
– 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes, then add garlic and ground meat. Cook until browned.
Step 3: Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Step 4: In a large bowl, combine pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta. Mix well.
Step 5: Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 6: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
Serves 6
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 430
Carbs: 32g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
You can freeze for up to 2 months—reheat covered at 350°F until warmed through.
Pairings/Suggestions
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables or soup.
Seasonal Relevance
Great year-round, especially in colder months. Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or make-ahead meals.
Conclusion
Easy Cheesy Pasta Casserole is a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone loves. With simple ingredients and big flavor, it’s the perfect dish to please a hungry crowd without the hassle.
Easy Cheesy Pasta Casserole
6
servings10
minutes30
minutes430
kcalEasy Cheesy Pasta Casserole is a comforting, oven-baked dish loaded with pasta, rich meat sauce, and melty cheese.
Ingredients
– 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
– 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes, then add garlic and ground meat. Cook until browned.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta. Mix well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Recipe Video
Notes
- – You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat.
– Add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
– Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to help it set before serving.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, any short pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or ziti works well.
Q2: Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
Q3: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate it up to a day ahead. Just add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
