Easy Italian Pasta Bake

This pasta bake is easy to make for holidays, special occasions or any special dinner meal.

Course Main Dish

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1 5

Servings

Calories 593kcal

Author Liz

Equipment

Ingredients

1 lb Rigatoni pasta or other short tube pasta
32 oz. pasta sauce reserve extra for serving at the end
15 oz. whole milk ricotta cheese
1 1/4 cups Romano cheese
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese
4 cloves chopped or minced garlic
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
pinch salt

Instructions

Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.
Add the pasta and cook for just over 1/2 the normal time (About 7 minutes - depends on pasta type). You want the pasta to be half-cooked as it will continue cooking in the oven.
Drain the pasta and set aside. Add a little water or oil to prevent sticking.
Meanwhile, combine the cheese, garlic, and olive oil together in a bowl.
In a baking dish (9x11 or so is fine), place a layer of pasta sauce on the bottom of the pan.
Add a layer of pasta, followed by another layer of sauce, then spread a layer of the cheese mixture, then another layer of pasta, sauce and cheese. There should be at least two layers, ending with a layer of sauce.

Pro Tip #1: The exact order doesn't matter too much, it will all bake together. You can also mix it all together once in the pan to ensure everything is evenly spread around.

Pro Tip #2: Make sure the sauce covers all the pasta and don't be shy. The pasta will absorb the sauce.

Cover the pan with foil and bake at 350F for at least 45 minutes total, removing the foil the last 10 to 15 minutes. Cook until the sauce is bubbling from the bottom and the taste test says so!
Serve with extra sauce and cheese for topping.

Notes

Nutritional data are estimates based on api calculations.

TIP #1: Add meat if you want, but make sure it is already cooked.

TIP #2: Do not tell anyone how easy this is to make.

TIP #3: Freeze what you do not eat and reheat in the oven or microwave for later. Suggestions for Side Dishes: Italian Green Salad, Lima Beans and Italian Bread!

Nutrition