10 Best Baked Pasta Recipes

Best Baked Pasta Recipes To Make For Dinner

Introduction

Cozy up with a plate of baked pasta, straight from the oven. Perfect for a family dinner, these recipes are easy to make and packed with flavor. From classic lasagnas to creamy macaronis, we’ve rounded up the best baked pasta recipes to make for dinner.

Recipe 1: Creamy Zucchini & Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Bake

This easy recipe is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. It’s also a great option for a quick weeknight dinner. Simply cook zucchini, chicken, and pasta, then mix everything together with some cream, Parmesan, and bread crumbs. Bake until the top is golden brown.

Recipe 2: Ground Beef & Pasta Casserole

This casserole is a weeknight staple. It’s easy to make and fills the house with a warm, comforting aroma. The ground beef and pasta mix is topped with a cheese and breadcrumb mixture, and baked until golden brown. Serve with a side of garlic bread for a delicious dinner.

Recipe 3: Baked Spinach & Feta Pasta

This Greek-inspired casserole is a fun twist on traditional pasta bake. Spinach, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes come together with pasta and a creamy bechamel sauce. Simply mix everything together, place in a baking dish, and bake until golden and bubbly.

Recipe 4: Jalapeño Popper Mac & Cheese Bites

Looking for a fun twist on traditional mac and cheese? These bite-sized macs are filled with cream cheese, jalapeños, and cheddar. Place them in a mini muffin tin and bake until golden brown. Serve as a snack or side dish.

Recipe 5: Spinach-Tomato Macaroni and Cheese

This classic pasta bake gets a boost from spinach and tomatoes. Combine cooked pasta, spinach, and tomato sauce with ricotta and Parmesan for a creamy, cheesy topping. Bake until golden brown and serve with a side salad.

Recipe 6: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This casserole is a fun twist on traditional chicken cordon bleu. Chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese come together in a creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a warm, flaky crust.

Recipe 7: Easy Lasagna

Don’t be intimidated by homemade lasagna. This simple recipe uses pre-cooked lasagna noodles and a three-cheese blend for an easy, delicious dinner. Simply layer everything together in a baking dish and bake until golden brown.

Recipe 8: Four-Cheese Mac and Cheese

This creamy mac and cheese is a comfort food staple. Combine cooked pasta with a blend of cheddar, Parmesan, Romano, and Gouda for a rich and creamy sauce. Bake until golden brown and serve as a side dish or main course.

Recipe 9: Chipotle Ranch Chicken Casserole

This spicy casserole is a fun twist on traditional chicken casserole. Chipotle peppers, ranch seasoning, and salsa come together with chicken, pasta, and cheese for a bold and flavorful dinner. Serve with a side salad or crusty bread.

Recipe 10: Vegan Mac and Cheese

Don’t worry, vegan friends! This creamy vegan mac and cheese is the perfect solution. Combine cooked pasta with a blend of vegan cheese, nutritional yeast, and cashew cream for a rich and satisfying sauce. Bake until golden brown and serve as a main course.

Conclusions

Baked pasta is a comforting and satisfying meal option that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a classic lasagna or a fun twist on traditional mac and cheese, we’ve got you covered. Try out some of these recipes and enjoy the perfect dinner with your friends and family.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between baked pasta and microwave pasta?

Baked pasta is cooked in the oven, which allows for the pasta to absorb flavors from the sauce and cheese more evenly. Microwave pasta cooks quickly, but can leave the pasta dry and starch-heavy.

1. What type of pasta is best for baked pasta?

Spaghetti, macaroni, and lasagna noodles work well for baked pasta dishes. Choose a pasta that holds its shape well during cooking and pairs well with the sauce and cheese you’re using.

1. Can I make baked pasta ahead of time?

Yes, baked pasta can be made ahead of time, but it’s best to freeze it before baking. Place the pasta in a casserole dish, refrigerate or freeze, then bake when you’re ready.

1. What can I serve with baked pasta?

Baked pasta goes well with a side of garlic bread, a mixed green salad, or crusty bread. You can also serve it with sautéed vegetables, roasted vegetables, or even a side of soup.

1. Can I add protein to my baked pasta?

Yes, you can add protein to your baked pasta by using cooked meats, such as chicken or ground beef, or incorporating beans, such as chickpeas or black beans.