Imagine the smell of bubbling cheese, rich tomato sauce, and savory sausage wafting through your kitchen. This Simple Baked Pasta recipe marries creamy, dreamy flavors with a cozy, satisfying texture that’s perfect for any season. It’s a dish that comes together in a snap, making it ideal for busy evenings or gatherings with friends. Even better, you’ll love that it’s creamy without being heavy—no fussy cream sauces here! The baked pasta is a crowd-pleaser, filled with cheesy goodness and delicious layers that come together with minimal fuss. Grab your pantry staples and let’s dive into this delicious comfort food!
Why You’ll Love Simple Baked Pasta (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
This Simple Baked Pasta recipe is not just about taste—it’s filled with benefits that will have you coming back for more. You’ll love how quickly you can whip it up, and it’s perfect for using up ingredients you already have in your pantry. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends, this dish is sure to hit the spot. Picture this: the crispy, cheesy top layers contrasting beautifully with the tender pasta beneath. And if you’re in the mood for a cozy night in? This recipe doubles as an excellent meal prep option!
- Speedy to Make: Whip up dinner in about 30 minutes.
- Great Texture: The crunchy top and soft pasta create a perfect bite.
- Pantry-Friendly: Use up staples you likely already have on hand.
- Meal-Prep King: Make it ahead of time and enjoy later.
- Dietary Options: It can easily accommodate various diets.
- Versatile: You can switch up ingredients to suit your taste.
Key Ingredients for Simple Baked Pasta
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavors and balances taste.
- 1 pound short tube pasta (like penne or ziti) – Creates a sturdy base that holds all the sauce and cheese.
- 4 cups tomato sauce – Brings that classic, comforting flavor; homemade or your favorite jarred sauce works great!
- 1 cup heavy cream – Adds richness without being too heavy; you could use a dairy-free alternative if needed.
- 1 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano (around 2 to 2.5 ounces) – Melts beautifully for a nutty, savory flavor boost.
- 8 ounces low-moisture mozzarella – This gives fantastic gooeyness and stretch.
- 0.75 lbs sweet or hot Italian sausage (optional) – Adds a hearty, savory kick.
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil – Helps cook your sausage and adds additional flavor.
- 9 ounces Tuscan kale – A nutritious twist that feels extra special in this dish.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below!
How to Make Simple Baked Pasta
Phase 1 – Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- If using sausage, remove the casings and crumble it into a pan with olive oil. Cook until browned, then add the kale.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, tomato sauce, heavy cream, Parmigiano Reggiano, and half of the mozzarella.
- Fold in the cooked sausage and kale mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the delicious layers!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Swap the Pasta: You can easily switch to gluten-free pasta without losing flavor.
- Layer Like a Pro: Alternate layers of sauce and cheese for extra flavor throughout.
- Meal Prep Magic: Make a double batch and freeze half for a speedy future meal!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is cooking the pasta too long. This leads to mushy pasta in the final dish. Always cook it al dente; it will continue to cook in the oven.
Another is using a thin sauce. A thicker sauce holds up better during baking; otherwise, you’ll end up with a watery bake. Just reduce your sauce on the stove for a richer consistency.
Lastly, overcrowding the baking dish can affect cooking. If it’s too packed, it could take longer to cook through or lead to uneven baking. Stick to appropriate serving sizes!
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta options.
- Dairy-Free: Try almond or coconut milk, and vegan cheese alternatives.
- Add Spice: Mix in red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Herbal Twist: Fresh basil or oregano can elevate the flavor.
- Quick Cooking: Use a stovetop method for a quicker option.
How to Serve Simple Baked Pasta
- Best Pairings: A light salad complements the richness.
- Toppings & Garnishes: Fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top enhance presentation.
- Drink Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine contrasts nicely with the dish.
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time, even a day in advance. Just assemble it and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked pasta for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly for best results.
Reheating
For oven reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. In the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring every minute until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just thaw and drain it before adding to the mix for better texture.
How to make it extra creamy without cream?
Try adding more cheese or a blend of cream cheese and milk for that creamy texture without using heavy cream.
Can I double it?
Absolutely! Just be sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the extra pasta.
How to fix a too-thick sauce?
Add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up, stirring until you reach the desired consistency.
Enjoy a comforting and creamy meal with this Simple Baked Pasta recipe! It’s rich in flavor and easy to prepare, making it a must-try for your next dinner. Don’t forget to rate this and explore other fantastic recipes on our site!
Simple Baked Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- If using sausage, remove the casings and crumble it into a pan with olive oil. Cook until browned, then add the kale.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, tomato sauce, heavy cream, Parmigiano Reggiano, and half of the mozzarella.
- Fold in the cooked sausage and kale mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.