Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary pasta night into an extraordinary feast! Our Pesto and Cheese Pasta Bake is not just another recipe – it's a creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed sensation that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine the perfect blend of vibrant pesto, three luxurious cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to golden-brown perfection. This Italian-inspired dish is about to become your new go-to comfort food that's both impressive and incredibly easy to make.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Add the pesto sauce to the cooked pasta and stir thoroughly to ensure each pasta piece is evenly coated with the sauce.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently fold the cheese mixture into the pesto-coated pasta, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves or additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, homemade pesto if possible, or a premium store-bought version for the best flavor.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Aim for a slight firmness to prevent mushy results.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated cheeses for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Let It Rest: Allow the pasta bake to sit for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes serving easier.
- Customize Your Bake: Feel free to add protein like cooked chicken or crispy pancetta for extra depth.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish in advance and refrigerate before baking. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the final presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 55mg
