About Cheesy pasta bake
Cheesy pasta bake is a popular and comforting dish that combines the delicious flavors of pasta, cheese, and a savory sauce. It is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences. The dish typically consists of cooked pasta that is mixed with a sauce, such as tomato or creamy Alfredo sauce, and then baked in the oven until the cheese on top becomes bubbly and golden. Additional ingredients like vegetables, herbs, and meats can be added to enhance the flavor and texture.
The origins of cheesy pasta bake can be traced back to Italian cuisine, where baked pasta dishes like lasagna and baked ziti have been enjoyed for centuries. These dishes were traditionally made with layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese, baked until they formed a deliciously rich and hearty meal. Over time, variations of these baked pasta dishes emerged in different parts of the world, including the cheesy pasta bake that we know today.
Steps
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
- 250g pasta (penne or any other short pasta)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 4: Saute the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic.
- Saute until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned.
- Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
- Add a layer of cooked pasta on top.
- Sprinkle some sauteed vegetables over the pasta.
- Add a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve
- Allow the pasta bake to cool for a few minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Per 100g | Per serving |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 156 | 325 |
| Total Fat | 9.4g | 19.6g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.7g | 11.9g |
| Cholesterol | 29mg | 61mg |
| Sodium | 375mg | 781mg |
| Carbohydrates | 12.8g | 26.7g |
| Fiber | 1.1g | 2.3g |
| Sugar | 2.1g | 4.4g |
| Protein | 8.2g | 17.1g |
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Pasta | 250g |
| Cheese (grated) | 200g |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
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