Italian Pasta Bake
Italian Pasta Bake pairs tender pasta with a flavorful sauce or filling for a satisfying main dish.
About This Recipe
Italian Pasta Bake works best when the pasta and sauce finish together.
Save a little cooking water or sauce to loosen the texture before serving.
Ingredients
- ✓2 pounds ground beef
- ✓1 large onion, chopped
- ✓2 garlic cloves, minced
- ✓1 jar (24 ounces) spaghetti sauce
- ✓1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- ✓1 can (4 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces, drained
- ✓1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ✓3 cups uncooked medium pasta shells
- ✓3 plum tomatoes, sliced
- ✓3/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
- ✓3/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
Ingredient Notes
- Pasta: Cook until just tender so it holds sauce.
- Sauce: Keep sauce loose enough to coat every piece.
- Cheese or seasoning: Add gradually and taste before serving.
- Reserved liquid: A splash of pasta water can help the sauce turn glossy.
Instructions
- 1
In a large skillet, cook the beef and onions over medium heat until no longer pink. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute longer. Drain off any grease.
- 2
Stir in the spaghetti sauce, diced tomatoes, mushrooms and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 20 minutes.
- 3
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F. Cook the pasta according to package directions; drain.
- 4
Add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture and gently stir in the sliced plum tomatoes.
- 5
Transfer to an ungreased 13x9-in. baking dish. Sprinkle with cheeses. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until bubbly and heated through.
Katy’s Kitchen Tips
- Salt the pasta water.
- Cook pasta just until tender.
- Reserve some cooking water.
- Toss pasta and sauce together before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
- Herb finish: Add parsley, cilantro, basil, dill, or chives.
- Spicier version: Increase chili, cayenne, black pepper, or hot sauce.
- Saucy version: Serve with gravy, salsa, pan sauce, or yogurt sauce.
- Meal prep: Use leftovers in bowls, wraps, salads, or sandwiches.
What to Serve With Italian Pasta Bake
Serve Italian Pasta Bake with garlic bread, salad, roasted vegetables, or extra grated cheese.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat covered with a splash of water, broth, or sauce to restore moisture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooked pasta: Soft pasta can break and feel heavy.
- Dry sauce: Keep a little water or sauce to loosen the dish.
- Rinsing pasta: Rinsing removes starch that helps sauce cling.
- Serving too late: Pasta thickens as it sits.
FAQ
Can I make Italian Pasta Bake ahead?
Yes. Reheat with a little extra liquid or sauce if needed.
How do I avoid mushy texture?
Stop cooking when just tender and let carryover heat finish the job.
Can I add vegetables or protein?
Yes, as long as extra moisture is controlled.
How should I reheat leftovers?
Reheat covered with a splash of liquid to restore moisture.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 489 calories
- Carbohydrates: 45g carbohydrate (10g sugars
- Cholesterol: 80mg cholesterol
- Fiber: 5g fiber)
- Protein: 32g protein.
- Sodium: 702mg sodium
- Fat: 20g fat (8g saturated fat)