Whether you’re looking to add a new comforting dish to your recipe repertoire or simply craving a cozy homemade meal, this Italian Tomato Pasta Bake is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With layers of cheesy goodness, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. Let’s get started on creating this flavorful classic!
Italian Tomato Pasta Bake
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound of penne pasta
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound of ground beef
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of 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.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until it is browned and no longer pink.
5. Season the beef mixture with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine.
6. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning as needed.
7. In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom.
8. Add a layer of cooked penne pasta on top of the sauce.
9. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pasta layer.
10. Continue layering the sauce, pasta, and cheeses until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
11. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Once done, let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before serving.
14. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor.
Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this Italian Tomato Pasta Bake with your loved ones. It’s a wonderful dish to share during family dinners or gatherings with friends. The hearty combination of pasta, meat, and cheesy goodness will surely make it a favorite in your household. Let the aromas fill your kitchen and indulge in every bite of this delicious and satisfying meal.
