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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.

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)

Instructions

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

Notes

  • Use short pasta like penne or rigatoni for best texture.
  • Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
  • Add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a vegetarian version.
  • Mix in cream or ricotta for a richer, creamier casserole.
  • Cover while reheating to prevent drying out.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/oven-baked-pasta-casserole/