Description
Enjoy a comforting baked pasta dish with tender pasta coated in a creamy ricotta and marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family gatherings, this cheesy delight is sure to satisfy everyone at the table!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces of pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 15 ounces of ricotta cheese
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the grated Parmesan, and half of the shredded mozzarella.
- Crack the egg into the bowl and mix until well combined.
- Add minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly distributed.
- Gently fold the drained pasta into the ricotta mixture until well coated.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and mix gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesnt touch the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow the baked pasta to sit for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Optionally, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top before serving.
- Scoop out portions and enjoy warm, paired with a side salad or garlic bread.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using homemade marinara sauce.
- Feel free to mix in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a nutritious boost.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes