Are you in the mood for a cozy and satisfying meal that doesn’t require an extra trip to the store for ricotta cheese? This Baked Pasta Without Ricotta recipe will become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends. Hearty pasta combined with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into this delicious and simple dish that will surely be a hit at your dinner table.
Baked Pasta Without Ricotta
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the tomato sauce and toss to coat evenly.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top, covering the pasta evenly.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Once baked, let the pasta cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of flavor and color.
This Baked Pasta Without Ricotta recipe is a versatile and comforting dish that can be tailored to suit your preferences. Feel free to add in cooked ground beef or sausage for a meaty twist, or throw in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a nutritious boost. It’s a perfect dish to prepare in advance and bake just before serving to impress your guests or enjoy a cozy night in.
Whether you’re a pasta lover looking for a new recipe to add to your repertoire or simply trying to avoid a trip to the store, this dish will delight your taste buds and satisfy your cravings. As you enjoy each cheesy, tomato-infused bite, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and warmth of this Baked Pasta Without Ricotta.
