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A bubbling tomato and mozzarella pasta bake in a glass dish with melted golden cheese and fresh basil.

Classic Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta Bake

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
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.