This Cheesy Baked Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Featuring a combination of cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and three kinds of cheese—mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan—this dish is packed with flavor. It’s easy to customize with additional toppings like black olives, bell peppers, or sausage, making it a versatile meal for the whole family. Simply mix the ingredients, bake until bubbly, and enjoy a warm and satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes. This casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side dish for gatherings.
This Cheesy Baked Casserole is the ultimate in comfort food. It combines pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses for a delicious, warming dish. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something comforting to enjoy on a cozy evening, this casserole is a perfect choice. Plus, it's versatile—you can add toppings like olives, bell peppers, or sausage to suit your taste.
Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this cheesy, satisfying casserole.
INGREDIENTS
- Cooked Pasta: 2 cups of cooked pasta (such as penne or macaroni) serve as the base of this casserole. Make sure the pasta is al dente to hold up during baking.
- Marinara Sauce: 1 cup of your favorite marinara sauce adds a rich tomato flavor that ties the dish together.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup of shredded mozzarella adds a creamy, melty texture to the casserole. Half of it is mixed into the pasta, while the other half is used as a topping.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese provides a sharp, tangy contrast to the mozzarella, making the dish even more flavorful.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan adds a salty, savory finish to the top of the casserole.
- Oregano and Basil: 1/2 teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil give the casserole a classic Italian herb flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Season the dish to taste with salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
- Optional Toppings: Customize the casserole with your favorite toppings such as sliced black olives, chopped bell peppers, or cooked sausage for added flavor and texture.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready by the time you're assembling your casserole.
- Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked pasta, 1 cup of marinara sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix everything together until well combined.
- Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet to prevent sticking, and transfer the pasta mixture into it. Spread the mixture evenly across the dish, making sure the pasta is well distributed.
- Step 4: Add the Cheesy Toppings
- Top the casserole with the remaining shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Then, sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for a deliciously cheesy finish. If you're adding any optional toppings, such as black olives, bell peppers, or cooked sausage, place them on top at this point.
- Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Make sure the casserole is heated through before removing it from the oven.
- Step 6: Let it Cool and Serve
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes. This will allow the cheese to set and make serving easier. Slice and serve while warm.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Cheesy Baked Casserole hot and fresh from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- This casserole can also be frozen. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Helpful Notes
- If you want to add some protein to this casserole, cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or ground beef make great additions. Just mix them in with the pasta and sauce before baking.
- Feel free to swap out the cheeses to suit your taste. Gouda, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack would bring interesting flavors to the dish.
- If you prefer a crispy topping, consider adding some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter to the top of the casserole before baking.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Giada De Laurentiis: Always undercook your pasta slightly before baking it in casseroles. This prevents it from becoming too soft during baking.
- Ina Garten: For a deeper, richer flavor, consider using homemade marinara sauce or adding a dash of red wine to your sauce before mixing it with the pasta.
- Rachael Ray: Add a bit of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that balances out the richness of the cheese.