Easy Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta Bake for Busy Nights

It is a cold winter evening and your family is hungry. You need something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. This tomato and mozzarella pasta bake is the answer to your busy night.

It delivers bubbly cheese and tender pasta in every single bite. Your kitchen will smell like a cozy Italian bistro. It is the kind of meal that makes everyone hurry to the table.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true winner for any busy weeknight dinner. It uses simple pantry staples that you likely already have. You do not need fancy skills to make this taste amazing.

The dual-cheese crust creates a perfect golden topping every time. It is budget-friendly and feeds a whole hungry crowd easily. Even your pickiest eaters will ask for second helpings tonight.

Simple Method

Making this dish is incredibly straightforward and stress-free. You simply boil the pasta and toss it with the sauce. Layering the cheese is the secret to that gooey center.

The oven does most of the hard work for you. You can even clean the kitchen while it bakes. Beginner cooks can master this recipe on the very first try.

Ingredients You Will Need

These ingredients are fresh, simple, and very easy to find.

• 16 ounces penne pasta
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup pasta cooking water
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water.
3. Cook for 2 minutes less than the package instructions.
4. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta and marinara sauce.
6. Add minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
7. Stir in the reserved pasta water to keep it moist.
8. Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
9. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over this first layer.
10. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top.
11. Distribute the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the surface.
12. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbling.
13. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
14. Garnish with fresh basil for a bright finish.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this dish warm while the cheese is still stretchy. A crisp green salad balances the rich pasta perfectly. You can also add a side of warm garlic bread.

For a special touch, serve it with a glass of red wine. It is the perfect comfort food meal for a snowy night. Your family will love the cozy vibes at the table.

Storage & Reheating

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to four days. This dish actually tastes even better the next day.

To reheat, place a portion in the oven at 350°F. Add a splash of water to keep the pasta tender. Microwave works well too for a quick desk lunch.

Recipe Tips for Best Results

• Do not skip reserving the pasta cooking water.
• Under有意cook the pasta slightly so it stays firm.
• Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
• Freshly grated parmesan melts much better than the canned kind.
• Add a pinch more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Let the dish rest so the sauce sets properly.
• Double the recipe if you are feeding a large crowd.
• Swap penne for rigatoni if that is what you have.

Ways to Switch It Up

• Add sautéed spinach for a boost of healthy greens.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make this allergy-friendly.
• Stir in cooked ground turkey for extra protein.
• Swap mozzarella for provolone for a sharper flavor.
• Mix in some ricotta for a creamier texture.

Common Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day early. Keep it covered in the fridge until you are ready. Just add five minutes to the baking time.

Will my kids actually eat this?

Most kids love the simple flavors of tomato and cheese. It is very picky-eater friendly and familiar. You can leave out the red pepper flakes if needed.

How do I know when it is done?

Look for the cheese to be melted and bubbly. The edges should look slightly golden and crisp. The sauce will be hot all the way through.

I hope this cozy pasta bake brings your family together tonight. It is a simple way to share a little love. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

— Lidia

Classic Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta Bake

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings 6 servings

Calories 485 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 16 ounces penne pasta
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup pasta cooking water
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Boil the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water for 2 minutes less than the package instructions for al dente texture.
• Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and the reserved pasta water.
• Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the first layer of pasta.
• Add the remaining pasta mixture on top.
• Evenly distribute the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and the 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese over the surface.
• Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly golden on the edges.
• Allow to rest for 5 minutes and garnish with fresh basil before serving.