Cheesy Tomato Pasta Bake is the perfect dish for cheese lovers and anyone looking for a delicious, budget-friendly meal. With its rich, homemade tomato sauce, tender pasta, and layers of gooey melted cheese, this pasta bake is an easy one-pan wonder that’s great for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy family dinner. Plus, it comes together in less than an hour, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make this cheesy, comforting pasta bake step by step.
Why Choose Cheesy Tomato Pasta Bake?
This dish is not only simple to prepare but also extremely satisfying. The combination of al dente pasta, a flavorful tomato sauce, and plenty of melty cheese makes it a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. If you’re a fan of baked pasta dishes, you might also enjoy Creamy Chicken Carbonara, another rich and creamy pasta favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make Cheesy Tomato Pasta Bake:
- Pasta: 12 ounces (about 3 cups) of your favorite pasta shape (penne, rigatoni, fusilli).
- Olive Oil: For sautéing.
- Onion: 1, diced.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces), undrained.
- Tomato Sauce: 1 can (14.5 ounces).
- Dried Basil and Oregano: 1 teaspoon each.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup.
- Fresh Basil (optional): For garnish.
How to Make Cheesy Tomato Pasta Bake
1. Cook the Pasta
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the pasta according to package instructions for al dente texture. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
4. Assemble the Bake
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and sprinkle with the rest of the cheeses.
5. Bake and Serve
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Customization Ideas for Your Cheesy Tomato Pasta Bake
Here are a few ways to customize your Cheesy Tomato Pasta Bake:
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
- Extra Veggies: Add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost the nutritional content.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
For more delicious comfort food, try Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice, which is another easy and comforting dinner option.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave individual portions until warmed through.
- Freeze: You can freeze this pasta bake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Health Benefits of Cheesy Tomato Pasta Bake
Tomato-based dishes like this one are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that has health benefits, including supporting heart health. Using whole grain or gluten-free pasta can add fiber and make the dish more nutritious. For a lighter yet comforting meal, check out Healthy Chicken Casserole, which offers similar cozy vibes with fewer calories.
Conclusion
Cheesy Tomato Pasta Bake is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights or feeding a crowd. With its rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and layers of melted cheese, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For another baked pasta recipe, try Spaghetti Bolognese, which brings classic Italian flavors to your table.