Quickie Pasta Bake

May 11, 2023May 11, 20230 4

Quickie Pasta Bake recipe for a delicious and easy dinner

by The Chefin Pasta

Prep

10 min

Cook

35 min

Ready In

45 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	1 1 lb rotini pasta or 1 lb pasta shells
	1 tablespoon vegetable oil
	1 onion , chopped
	1 can crushed tomatoes or ( 28 ounce ) can diced tomatoes
	1 teaspoon dried oregano ( I used basil , because I 'm allergic )
	salt and pepper
	1/4 teaspoon cayenne
	2 cups cheese , grated , any type

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

589

Sugar

Fat

28g

This Quickie Pasta Bake is a delicious and easy dinner that is perfect for busy weeknights. Made with simple ingredients like pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese, this recipe is a family favorite that can be customized to suit any taste preference. The pasta is cooked until it is al dente and then smothered in a rich tomato sauce that is flavored with oregano or basil. Topped with melted cheese, this pasta bake is a comfort food that will warm you up from the inside out.

Instructions

1.	Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.
2.	Preheat the oven to 375°F.
3.	In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it softens.
4.	Add the crushed or diced tomatoes, dried oregano or basil, salt, pepper, and cayenne to the skillet. Stir and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
5.	Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the tomato sauce.
6.	Transfer the pasta to a large baking dish and top with grated cheese.
7.	Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

PROS

Quick and easy to make, this pasta bake is a family favorite.

Can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven for a quick dinner.

CONS

High in calories and fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

May not be suitable for those with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While not particularly healthy, this pasta bake is a good source of carbohydrates and protein.
Tomatoes are high in antioxidants and have been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease.
Oregano and basil are also rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.