When it comes to comfort food that brings warmth to the soul, there’s nothing quite like a hearty and delicious baked pasta dish. Imagine a bubbling pan of pasta enveloped in a rich tomato sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese, and infused with the flavors of traditional Italian herbs and spices. Our Authentic Italian Baked Pasta recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed regions of Italy. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or simply craving a satisfying meal, this classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
**Authentic Italian Baked Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb dried pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly.
7. Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
8. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the pasta layer. Repeat with the remaining pasta and cheese, creating a beautiful cheesy topping.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
11. Once out of the oven, let the baked pasta rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
12. Serve this Authentic Italian Baked Pasta hot and bubbly, alongside a crisp green salad and a crusty loaf of bread for the perfect cozy meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Authentic Italian Baked Pasta is a timeless dish that embodies the essence of Italian comfort food. With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s easy to see why this classic recipe has stood the test of time. So, roll up your sleeves, turn on some Italian music, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will delight your senses and warm your heart. Buon appetito!
