Italian Tomato Pasta Bake
Whether you're looking to add a new comforting dish to your recipe repertoire or simply craving a cozy homemade meal, this Italian Tomato Pasta Bake is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With layers of cheesy goodness, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's as delicious as it is easy to make. Let's get started on creating this flavorful classic!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
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Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
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Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until it is browned and no longer pink.
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Season the beef mixture with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine.
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Pour in the crushed tomatoes and simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning as needed.
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In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom.
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Add a layer of cooked penne pasta on top of the sauce.
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Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pasta layer.
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Continue layering the sauce, pasta, and cheeses until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
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Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
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Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Once done, let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before serving.
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Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 serving- Calories
- 580 kcal
- Total Fat
- 26 g
- Saturated Fat
- 12 g
- Cholesterol
- 85 mg
- Sodium
- 780 mg
- Total Carbohydrate
- 49 g
- Dietary Fiber
- 4 g
- Sugars
- 8 g
- Protein
- 38 g
Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this Italian Tomato Pasta Bake with your loved ones. It's a wonderful dish to share during family dinners or gatherings with friends. The hearty combination of pasta, meat, and cheesy goodness will surely make it a favorite in your household. Let the aromas fill your kitchen and indulge in every bite of this delicious and satisfying meal.