This quick, easy, and delicious pasta bake requires minimal cleanup and is perfect for busy weeknights. Follow these steps to create a mouth-watering meal that your whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 250 grams of pasta
- 350 grams of tomato sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Water (just enough to cover ingredients)
- 200 grams mozzarella cheese, grated
- 50 grams parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pasta and Sauce:
- Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C).
- In a large oven-safe pan, add 250 grams of pasta.
- Pour in 350 grams of tomato sauce over the pasta.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. These will add flavor and texture to your dish.
- Season with 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Add Water:
- Pour water into the pan, just enough to cover all the ingredients. This ensures that the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors.
- Stir the ingredients with a spoon to mix everything well. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Bake the Pasta:
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil to trap the steam and help the pasta cook faster.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. This initial baking will cook the pasta and meld the flavors together.
- Prepare the Cheeses:
- While the pasta is baking, grate 200 grams of mozzarella cheese. Mozzarella adds a creamy and gooey texture to the dish.
- Measure out 50 grams of parmesan cheese. Parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the pasta bake.
- Add the Cheese Toppings:
- After 20 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and take off the foil.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta. Make sure to cover the entire surface for a cheesy topping.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella. You can use more or less cheese according to your preference.
- Final Baking:
- Return the pan to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will melt the cheese and create a golden, bubbly topping.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the pasta bake hot, scooping portions onto plates. The combination of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese is sure to delight everyone.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, gouda, or a blend of your favorite cheeses can add unique flavors.
- Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the pan before baking for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Protein Boost: For a more filling meal, add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken to the pasta before baking.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top before serving can add a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
Conclusion:
This no dirty pots pasta bake is a perfect solution for a quick and easy meal that requires minimal cleanup. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting dish that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, this pasta bake is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Share Your Experience:
I hope you enjoy making and eating this delightful pasta bake. Share this recipe with friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you. If you have any favorite variations or tips, I’d love to hear about them. Enjoy this easy and delicious meal, and see you in the next recipe adventure!
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