If you are looking for a quick and delicious pasta dish, this baked pasta casserole is a perfect choice. With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, it’s an ideal dinner option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (250 grams) of tri-color rotini pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (or enough to cover the pasta)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
- Prepare the Pasta:
- In a large casserole dish, pour in the uncooked tri-color rotini pasta.
- Add Chicken Broth:
- Pour the chicken broth over the pasta until it is just covered. This ensures the pasta will cook properly in the oven without needing to be boiled first.
- Season the Pasta:
- Drizzle olive oil over the pasta.
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly over the pasta. Stir gently to distribute the seasonings.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.
- Add Cream:
- Pour the heavy cream over the cheese and pasta. This will help create a creamy sauce as it bakes.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and carefully remove the foil.
- Stir the casserole to combine all the ingredients and ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese and cream mixture.
- If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the baked pasta casserole hot. Enjoy this comforting, cheesy dish with your family and friends.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, add cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef to the casserole before baking.
- Vegetable Options: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gouda, Swiss, or Monterey Jack, for a unique taste.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the pasta for a spicy kick.
Detailed Steps:
- Preparation:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures the oven is hot and ready for baking.
- Layering the Pasta:
- Take a large casserole dish and pour in the uncooked tri-color rotini pasta. Spread the pasta evenly to cover the bottom of the dish.
- Adding Liquid:
- Pour chicken broth over the pasta, making sure it covers the pasta completely. The liquid will cook the pasta while it bakes, eliminating the need for pre-boiling.
- Seasoning:
- Drizzle olive oil over the pasta to prevent it from sticking and to add flavor.
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder over the pasta. Stir gently to mix the seasonings with the pasta.
- Cheese Layer:
- Add shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. These cheeses will melt and create a creamy, cheesy sauce as the casserole bakes.
- Adding Cream:
- Pour heavy cream over the cheese and pasta mixture. The cream will combine with the melted cheese to form a rich sauce.
- Baking:
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to trap the heat and moisture, ensuring the pasta cooks evenly.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check to see if the pasta is tender and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Finishing Touches:
- Carefully remove the foil from the casserole dish and stir the pasta to mix the cheese and cream thoroughly.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a garnish, if desired.
- Serving:
- Serve the baked pasta casserole hot. It pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
This baked pasta casserole is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious. The combination of cheeses, cream, and perfectly seasoned pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish with your loved ones!
