Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole Recipe

🍝 Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole Recipe

🌟 Introduction

Cheesy baked pasta casserole, often called Baked Ziti or Pasta al Forno, is one of the most beloved comfort foods in the world. With layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy cheese, and a golden-brown bubbly crust, it brings warmth and joy to the table. Its appeal lies not only in taste but also in its ability to feed a crowd, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, and celebrations.

🧾 Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb (450 g) pasta (ziti, penne, or rigatoni)
• Salt (for boiling water)

For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and sausage)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil

1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)

2 tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)

½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)

Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Cheese Mixture:

1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese substitute)

1 cup parmesan cheese, grated

2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 egg (for binding)

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For Topping:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Extra parmesan for sprinkling

📝 Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
2. Add pasta and cook until al dente (firm, as it will cook further in the oven).
3. Drain, drizzle with olive oil, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet.
2. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
4. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, sugar, and Italian seasoning.
5. Simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes until thickened.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a bowl, combine ricotta, parmesan, 1 cup mozzarella, egg, and parsley.
2. Mix until creamy and well blended.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking dish:
   
   • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce.
   • Add half the pasta.
   • Spread half the cheese mixture.
   • Add more meat sauce.
   • Repeat layers until ingredients are used.
   • Top with mozzarella and parmesan.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
3. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

📜 History

Baked pasta has roots in Italy, particularly in Southern regions like Sicily and Naples. Known as Pasta al Forno, it was traditionally made for Sunday feasts and holidays. Italian immigrants later popularized it in America, where it became known as Baked Ziti, evolving with the addition of ricotta and mozzarella for extra creaminess.

💡 Benefits

• Nutrient-dense: Rich in protein, calcium, and iron.
• Customizable: Swap beef for chicken, turkey, or vegetables.
• Family-style meal: Feeds many at once.
• Make-ahead friendly: Can be frozen and reheated.
• Comfort food: Warm, cheesy, and satisfying.

🏗 Formation

• Base: Pasta
• Middle layer: Rich meat sauce + ricotta mixture
• Top layer: Mozzarella & parmesan, baked until golden

❤️ Lovers of this Dish

• Cheese lovers (for that gooey, stretchy topping).
• Pasta lovers (who enjoy hearty, filling meals).
• Families & gatherings (perfect for potlucks and celebrations).
• Comfort seekers (those who want a cozy, homemade meal).

🔬 Nutrition (per serving – approx. 1½ cups)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 28 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Calcium: 25% DV
• Iron: 20% DV

🎯 Conclusion

The Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole is a timeless dish that blends tradition, flavor, and comfort in every bite. With its rich sauce, creamy layers, and golden crust, it turns an ordinary dinner into a celebration.

💕 For the Lovers

This dish is best enjoyed with:

• A fresh Caesar or garden salad
• Garlic bread or focaccia
• A glass of red wine (or grape juice for kids)
• Shared laughter and stories around the table