If you love creamy, cheesy, and flavorful baked pasta, this Italian Restaurant-Style Baked Pasta is for you! This dish is packed with layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, gooey melted cheese, and delicious seasonings, creating the perfect comfort meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a special gathering, this baked pasta will always be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Authentic Italian Flavor – Tastes just like the baked pasta from a classic Italian restaurant.
✔ Cheesy & Comforting – Gooey mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and Parmesan make this dish extra indulgent.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Perfect for meal prep or freezing for later.
✔ Customizable – Add meats, veggies, or different cheeses to suit your taste!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
-
1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti work best)
-
1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce:
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
-
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
-
1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
-
1 teaspoon dried basil
-
1 teaspoon dried oregano
-
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
-
1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
-
Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
-
1½ cups ricotta cheese
-
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 large egg
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
-
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Topping:
-
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
-
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
Fresh basil, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
-
Add pasta and cook until just al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package directions).
-
Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce
-
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
-
Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until soft.
-
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
-
Add basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
-
Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
-
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
-
Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Baked Pasta
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and tomato sauce, mixing well.
-
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
-
Layer half the pasta mixture in the baking dish.
-
Dollop half the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta and gently spread it out.
-
Repeat with another layer of pasta and the remaining ricotta cheese mixture.
-
Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Pasta
-
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
-
Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
-
Let the baked pasta rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
-
Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.
-
Serve with garlic bread and a side salad for the full Italian experience.
Serving Suggestions
🍽️ Serve with crispy garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
🥗 Pair with a fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
🧀 Add extra Parmesan cheese on top for an even cheesier experience.
Variations & Customizations
🔹 Make It Meaty – Add cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken.
🌿 Vegetarian Option – Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
🔥 Spicy Version – Use hot Italian sausage or extra red pepper flakes.
🧀 Extra Cheese Lovers – Add fresh mozzarella slices on top for an even cheesier bite.
Tips for Perfect Italian Baked Pasta
✔ Cook pasta al dente – It will continue cooking in the oven.
✔ Let it rest before serving – This helps the cheese set and prevents a soupy texture.
✔ Use high-quality tomatoes – This makes a huge difference in flavor.
✔ Don’t overbake – Too much time in the oven can dry out the pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Bake when ready.
Can I Freeze Baked Pasta?
Yes! Assemble the pasta, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
How Do I Reheat Leftovers?
-
Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
-
Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second intervals until warm.
Conclusion
This Italian Restaurant-Style Baked Pasta is an easy, comforting, and absolutely delicious meal that your whole family will love. With rich tomato sauce, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly baked pasta, this dish brings the flavors of an Italian trattoria straight to your kitchen.
🔥 Try this recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality baked pasta right at home! 🍝
