The classic tomato and mozzarella pasta bake is a dish that brings together hearty flavors and simple ingredients to create magic in your kitchen. Best of all, it’s easy to make and fits perfectly in a trusty casserole dish, making it a staple for family dinners or casual gatherings.
In this recipe, I’ll walk you through each step, ensuring your pasta bake turns out flavorful, cheesy, and unforgettable.
Gather Your Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a 6-serving casserole dish:
- Penne Pasta: 12 ounces (about 3 cups uncooked)
- Tomato Sauce: 3 cups (homemade or store-bought)
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup grated
- Fresh Basil: A handful for garnish
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: Optional, for greasing the casserole dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil the Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use about 1 teaspoon of salt per quart of water for the perfect balance. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the penne pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta until it’s just shy of al dente, typically about 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions.
Drain the pasta well, but don’t rinse it. The starch on the pasta helps the sauce cling better, creating a cohesive dish. Set the cooked pasta aside while you prepare the sauce and cheeses.
2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
If you’re using store-bought tomato sauce, choose a high-quality brand with minimal additives. For a homemade touch, warm your tomato sauce on the stovetop with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add a crushed garlic clove or a sprinkle of Italian herbs for an extra flavor boost. Let the sauce simmer gently while you move on to assembling the casserole.
3. Assemble the Pasta Bake
To build your pasta bake, grab your favorite casserole dish. A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe. Lightly grease the bottom and sides with olive oil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Begin by mixing the drained pasta with about two-thirds of the tomato sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella, ensuring it distributes evenly through the pasta. This step guarantees melty cheese in every bite.
Pour the pasta mixture into the casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top, making sure to cover all the pasta. This layer will keep the pasta moist during baking.
4. Top It Off
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly across the top of the dish. Follow with the grated Parmesan, which will add a savory, golden crust as it bakes.
For extra indulgence, you can mix breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, then scatter them over the cheese. This adds a delightful crunch to the final dish.
5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you haven’t already. Slide the casserole dish into the center rack of the oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely and begins to bubble around the edges.
You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese turns a beautiful golden-brown, and your kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of baked pasta and cheese.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. This resting time allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Before digging in, garnish with freshly torn basil leaves. The vibrant green adds a touch of color and a hint of aromatic freshness.
Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy the cheesy, saucy goodness.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Bake
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Stopping just before al dente ensures it doesn’t turn mushy while baking.
- Customize Your Sauce: Add sautéed onions, garlic, or red pepper flakes to your tomato sauce for a punch of flavor.
- Cheese Combinations: Experiment with adding Gruyère, provolone, or even a dollop of ricotta for extra richness.
- Freezing Option: Assemble the dish but stop before baking. Cover it tightly and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Pairing Suggestions
This classic pasta bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette. Add a side of garlic bread or a loaf of crusty artisan bread for an irresistible, well-rounded meal. A glass of Chianti or another dry red wine complements the flavors perfectly, while sparkling water with lemon offers a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Beyond its delightful flavors, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. It works equally well for feeding a large family or meal prepping for the week. Leftovers taste even better as the flavors meld overnight, making it a practical and delicious choice.
No matter the occasion, this classic tomato and mozzarella pasta bake never fails to deliver warmth and satisfaction. It’s not just food — it’s a love letter to simplicity and the art of comfort cooking.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to serve up a dish that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Enjoy!
Why This Recipe Stands Out
The charm of this dish lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t rely on complex cooking techniques or a long list of hard-to-find ingredients. Instead, it’s all about combining wholesome staples — penne pasta, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey mozzarella — with thoughtful preparation. The result? A casserole packed with rich flavor, satisfying textures, and a taste that transports you straight to an Italian trattoria.
Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily add vegetables, extra cheeses, or spices to customize it to your liking. But today, we’re focusing on the classic version that never fails to deliver comfort and joy.
