Name: Oven Baked Pasta Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 300g pasta (penne or rigatoni); 400g ground beef or ground turkey; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

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I love making this oven baked pasta casserole when I want a warm, comforting dish that feels hearty and satisfying. It combines tender pasta, rich sauce, and melted cheese into a baked meal that fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy how this recipe brings together simple ingredients into something incredibly flavorful. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for busy days. I also like how customizable it is—I can adjust the ingredients based on what I have on hand. The golden, bubbly cheese on top makes every bite feel comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pasta (penne or rigatoni)
ground beef or ground turkey
onion
garlic
marinara sauce
tomato paste
olive oil
mozzarella cheese
parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
Italian seasoning
fresh basil (optional)

Directions

I start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente, then I drain it and set it aside.

In a large pan, I heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft. I add the garlic and cook for another minute before adding the ground meat. I cook it until browned and fully cooked through.

Next, I stir in the marinara sauce, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. I let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to deepen the flavors.

I combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, making sure everything is evenly coated. Then I transfer the mixture into a baking dish.

I top it generously with mozzarella and sprinkle parmesan over the top. I bake it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a lightly golden top.

I let it cool slightly before serving and add fresh basil if I want a fresh finish.

Servings and timing

I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes

Variations

I sometimes make this dish vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. I also like using different cheeses such as cheddar or a blend for a richer flavor. When I want a creamier version, I mix in a bit of cream or ricotta cheese.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I cover it and warm it in the oven to keep it from drying out, or I use the microwave for a quicker option. If it feels dry, I add a small splash of water or sauce before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

I often assemble it ahead and keep it in the refrigerator, then bake it when I’m ready to serve.

Can I freeze baked pasta casserole?

I freeze it either before or after baking. I just make sure it’s well covered and thaw it before reheating.

What type of pasta works best?

I prefer short pasta like penne or rigatoni because they hold the sauce well.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

I make sure there’s enough sauce and cover it while reheating to retain moisture.

Can I use store-bought sauce?

I use store-bought marinara often, and it works perfectly for convenience.

Conclusion

I always turn to this oven baked pasta casserole when I want a reliable, comforting meal. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing. Whether I’m cooking for family or just craving something cozy, this dish always delivers.

Oven Baked Pasta Casserole

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A warm and comforting oven-baked pasta casserole made with tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and a golden layer of melted cheese, perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Author: Mayaa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Halal

Ingredients

300g pasta (penne or rigatoni)
400g ground beef or ground turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups marinara sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until soft.
Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground beef or turkey and cook until browned and fully cooked through.
Stir in marinara sauce, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, mixing well to coat evenly.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Top with shredded mozzarella and sprinkle parmesan cheese over it.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden.
Let it cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve.