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Overhead view of baked pasta with golden melted cheese
ChefMaster Emily

Classic Cheesy Pasta Bake

This pasta bake layers tender pasta with herby garlic tomato sauce and three cheeses—ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan—for a comfort-filled, oven-baked dinner. Perfect for families, meal prep, or anyone craving cheesy goodness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz short pasta (penne or fusilli) cooked al dente
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes about 28 oz
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Layer
  • 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté minced garlic until golden. Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
  4. In the dish, layer half the pasta, then half the tomato sauce, spoon dollops of ricotta, sprinkle mozzarella. Repeat the layers and top with parmesan.
  5. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Customize with veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or add meat. Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep!