Best Ever Cheesy Pasta Bake

why make this recipe

Best Ever Cheesy Pasta Bake is a comforting dish that brings joy to the dinner table. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. With gooey cheese, tender pasta, and a touch of veggies, it satisfies hunger and warms the soul.

how to make Best Ever Cheesy Pasta Bake

Ingredients :

• 1 pound penne
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups cheddar, shredded
• 2 cups mozzarella, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley

Directions :

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a casserole dish.
2. Cook penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook briefly.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Simmer until thickened.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, 1 cup cheddar, 1 cup mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth.
6. Add cooked pasta, red bell pepper, and parsley. Mix well.
7. Transfer to prepared dish and spread evenly.
8. Top with remaining cheddar and mozzarella.
9. Bake until golden and bubbly.
10. Let rest briefly before serving.

how to serve Best Ever Cheesy Pasta Bake

To serve this cheesy pasta bake, simply scoop out portions onto plates or bowls. It pairs well with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread on the side. For an extra touch, sprinkle more parsley on top to add color and freshness.

how to store Best Ever Cheesy Pasta Bake

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta bake will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven until warmed through, or microwave individual servings as needed.

tips to make Best Ever Cheesy Pasta Bake

• Make sure not to overcook the pasta before mixing. It should be al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors. Consider adding gouda or fontina.
• Add in some cooked chicken or ground beef for added protein.
• For a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

variation

You can easily turn this dish into a veggie-packed meal by adding in other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them before mixing them in with the sauce and pasta for added texture and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesy pasta bake a day in advance. Just cover it and place it in the refrigerator before baking. When ready, simply bake it as directed.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

What can I serve with this pasta bake?
Best Ever Cheesy Pasta Bake goes great with a simple salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.

Best Ever Cheesy Pasta Bake

A comforting and delicious pasta bake rich in flavors, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 650

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Vegetables

• 1 pound penne
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley

Sauce Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Cheese Toppings

• 2 cups cheddar, shredded
• 2 cups mozzarella, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a casserole dish.
2. Cook penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook briefly.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Simmer until thickened.

Combining Ingredients

1. Remove from heat. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, 1 cup cheddar, 1 cup mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth.
2. Add cooked pasta, red bell pepper, and parsley. Mix well.

Baking

1. Transfer to prepared dish and spread evenly.
2. Top with remaining cheddar and mozzarella.
3. Bake until golden and bubbly.
4. Let rest briefly before serving.

Notes

Make sure not to overcook the pasta before mixing; it should be al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add protein for a heartier dish. For a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.