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omato and mozzarella pasta bake

Casserole Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta Bake - Quick & Easy

The classic tomato and mozzarella pasta bake is a dish that brings together hearty flavors and simple ingredients to create magic in your kitchen.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Method
 

Boil the Pasta to Perfection
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce
  1. 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.
Assemble the Pasta Bake
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
Top It Off
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
Garnish and Serve
  1. 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.
  2. Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy the cheesy, saucy goodness.