Easy pasta bake with leek and cheese –Are you looking for a delicious and easy recipe to make for dinner? This Easy Cheesy Weeknight Pasta Bake is not only scrumptious but also make-ahead and freezable, making it perfect for busy evenings. Let’s dive into this satisfying dish that the whole family will love!
Easy Cheesy Weeknight Pasta Bake
This pasta bake features layers of cheesy goodness, pasta, and your favorite Italian seasonings. Plus, it’s simple enough for a weeknight meal while also being perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to make it!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (penne or rotini work great)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
This Easy Cheesy Weeknight Pasta Bake is sure to be a hit at your table. It’s comforting, filling, and can easily be made ahead of time or frozen for later use. Enjoy the warmth and flavors of this delightful dish!