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Crispy Cheesy Baked Pasta

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A quick and easy baked pasta dish featuring a crispy golden cheese crust and a gooey, saucy center, perfect for comforting weeknight meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti)
  • Salt for pasta water
  • 3 cups (720 ml) marinara sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups (170 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (225 grams) ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for a subtle kick

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of pasta and cook until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine 3 cups (720 ml) marinara sauce with garlic powder and oregano. Stir well to blend flavors.
  4. Toss the drained pasta with the seasoned marinara until evenly coated.
  5. In a separate bowl, gently mix 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella, 1 cup shredded cheddar, and 1 cup ricotta cheese.
  6. Layer half the pasta mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Dollop half the cheese mixture over it, spreading gently. Repeat with remaining pasta and cheese layers.
  7. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the top.
  8. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy and the cheese bubbles around the edges.
  9. Let the pasta sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente before baking to avoid mushiness. Butter the breadcrumbs for a golden, crunchy topping. Bake uncovered to achieve a crispy crust. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to thicken the sauce and make slicing easier. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked pasta, cheesy pasta, crispy pasta, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meal, pasta bake, mozzarella, cheddar, ricotta

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/crispy-cheesy-baked-pasta-recipe-easy-perfect-comfort-meal/