tomato pasta bake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best tomato pasta bake recipe

I love this tomato pasta bake recipe because it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic comfort food dish that never fails to satisfy our cravings.

The combination of juicy tomatoes, al dente pasta, and creamy cheese is a match made in heaven. I remember my mother making this dish for me when I was a kid, and now I make it for my own family.

It’s a perfect recipe for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal preparation time.

I can have it ready in under an hour, which is perfect for busy weeknights when everyone’s schedules are tight. Plus, it’s a great way to get some veggies into my kids – they love the hidden spinach and bell peppers in the sauce!

My husband always requests this dish when he comes home from work, and my kids ask for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) The flavors are rich and satisfying, and the leftovers are just as good as the first serving.

This recipe has been passed down through generations of cooks in my family, and I’m so glad I can share it with you today.

Tomato Pasta Bake

Tomato Pasta Bake

4.5 from 1815 votes

A comforting baked pasta dish with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. This easy recipe combines tender pasta with a flavorful tomato and herb sauce, then bakes until bubbly and golden.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz (225g) penne or rigatoni pasta
1 tbsp salt for pasta water

For the Sauce

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp sugar
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping

1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes, following package directions.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
5While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6Add the chopped onion and saute until translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
8Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, and season with salt and pepper.
9Stir well and let the sauce simmer over medium-low heat for 10 minutes, until slightly thickened.
10Combine the drained pasta with the tomato sauce in the skillet, stirring to coat every piece evenly.
11Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
12Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the pasta.
13Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden brown spots.
14Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving, then garnish with fresh basil if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot for boiling pasta
Colander
Large skillet or saucepan
Wooden spoon
9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a heartier dish.

Watch Video Of How Tomato Pasta Bake Works

This tomato pasta bake recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. It’s easy to make and requires minimal preparation time, making it perfect for busy families like mine.

Plus, it’s a great way to get some veggies into your kids (like me!) You can reheat it in the oven or microwave and serve it hot with some crusty bread on the side.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato Pasta Bake

Q: What type of pasta is best suited for this recipe?

This recipe works well with penne, macaroni, or any other short-shaped pasta. You can also use a combination of different shapes if you like.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if they’re in season. However, keep in mind that fresh tomatoes will have more water content than canned ones, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you use a vegetarian-friendly cheese alternative.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the dish.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

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