Three cheese baked pasta –Experience the delightful flavors of a comforting Three-Cheese Baked Pasta. This dish combines the richness of cheese with the warmth of pasta, creating a meal that is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Below you will find a detailed guide to preparing this delicious recipe, complete with ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
Visual Appeal
Take a moment to appreciate the visual appeal of this dish before diving in. The layers of pasta and cheese meld beautifully in this baked creation.
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering Three-Cheese Baked Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Follow these straightforward instructions to prepare your Three-Cheese Baked Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and stir gently to combine.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Add half of the pasta mixture, followed by another layer of marinara sauce. Repeat with the remaining pasta and sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top of the dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and enjoy your delicious meal!
Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this Three-Cheese Baked Pasta is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the comfort of homemade cooking.