Description
This cheesy pasta casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with flavor and topped with a crispy golden crust. Perfect for family dinners and potlucks!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tomato mixture, mozzarella cheese, and ricotta cheese. Mix well to combine.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or protein such as cooked chicken or ground beef.
- You can use any type of pasta you have on hand.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 50
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 20
- Cholesterol: 50
Keywords: pasta casserole, cheesy pasta, comfort food, family dinner, casserole recipe