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Looking for a filling and flavorful dinner idea? This pasta bake combines tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and perfectly melted mozzarella to create a dish that’s perfect for family meals or special gatherings. With customizable ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Learn how to make this crowd-pleasing dish that pairs wonderfully with garlic bread and fresh salads.

Ingredients:

1 lb. pasta (ziti, penne, or rigatoni)
1 cup ricotta cheese
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
1 egg, whisked
2 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, divided
1 lb. ground beef (see notes)
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon each: salt and pepper
1 teaspoon each: onion powder and Italian seasoning
2 (24 oz.) jars marinara sauce (recommend Rao’s brand or homemade)
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This recipe uses ample sauce to prevent dry pasta, as the pasta absorbs much of the sauce while baking.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, whisked egg, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta 2 minutes less than the package’s al dente instructions. Drain and set aside. Timing is crucial to avoid mushy pasta.
Cook the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef with the diced onions. Once browned, drain any excess grease. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in the marinara sauce. Heat through and remove from heat.
Assemble the Bake: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Combine the cooked pasta with about three-quarters of the meat sauce, then transfer the mixture to the prepared dish. Add spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the top, followed by the remaining meat sauce.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of mozzarella cheese on top, and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Filling: This pasta bake is hearty and satisfying, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Customizable: Use your favorite pasta shapes or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it ahead of time and bake when ready for a stress-free meal.

Tips

Perfect Pasta: Undercook the pasta slightly as it will continue cooking in the oven.
Even Layers: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Cheese Melting: For a golden-brown finish, broil the dish for 1-2 minutes after baking.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage, turkey, or a plant-based alternative.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
Cheese Variations: Use provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Store portions in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

What other sauces can I use?
Try Alfredo or a creamy tomato sauce for a different twist.

Serving and Suggestions

Pair this pasta bake with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Serve with garlic breadsticks or cheesy garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired dinner.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or freshly grated Parmesan at the table for extra flavor.