7 Ultimate Baked Pasta Recipes: Easy Weeknight Dinners 2026

Struggling to find satisfying yet simple weeknight meals? You’re not alone in searching for easy baked dinner recipes pasta that the whole family will actually eat. The cycle of uninspired dinners can be draining.

Baked pasta recipes are hearty, cheesy, and convenient dishes typically made with pasta, sauce, cheese, and sometimes meat or vegetables, then baked until bubbly and golden, making them ideal for easy weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. This guide provides 7 ultimate, family-approved recipes designed for quick meal prep and delicious results.

Leveraging kitchen-tested methods and expert advice, we’ve curated the only list you’ll need. You’ll discover how to create everything from a meaty baked ziti to a creamy chicken bake. Get ready to transform your dinner routine with these comforting pasta bake solutions.

Savor the Comfort: Unlocking the Best Baked Dinner Recipes Pasta for Easy Weeknights

There’s something uniquely satisfying about a comforting pasta bake. The combination of perfectly cooked pasta, a rich, saucy filling, and a golden-brown cheesy crust is the very definition of the ultimate comfort food. But for many home cooks, the idea of preparing one on a busy weeknight can feel daunting. We often face challenges like mushy pasta, a dry sauce, or simply not knowing where to start. This guide is designed to solve those problems, offering a curated collection of the best baked pasta dishes specifically chosen for their simplicity and incredible flavor. Each recipe is a proven family favorite, engineered for easy prep and even easier cleanup, making them perfect weeknight dinner ideas.

7 Ultimate Baked Pasta Recipes: Your Go-To Guide for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Here you’ll find seven of our most reliable and crowd-pleasing baked pasta recipes. Each one is designed to be a go-to make-ahead meal or a quick-to-assemble one-pan dinner. We’ve included everything from a classic baked ziti recipe to a creamy chicken pasta bake, ensuring there’s a delicious baked pasta for every taste and occasion. These recipes are more than just instructions; they are blueprints for a perfect, bubbly pasta dinner, complete with pro-tips to guarantee success every time. Get ready to master these hearty dinner recipes and make them a staple in your weekly rotation.

1. Master the Classic Baked Ziti Recipe for a Crowd-Pleasing Meal

Pin this ultimate baked ziti recipe for your next family dinner!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti pasta (high-quality, holds shape well when baked)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin, for sautéing)
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean, for rich flavor)
• 1 large onion, chopped (sweet, for foundational flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh, for aromatic depth)
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano-style for best taste)
• 15 oz can tomato sauce (unseasoned, for smooth consistency)
• 1/2 cup water (or red wine for extra depth)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (Italian blend)
• 1/2 tsp dried basil (sweet, aromatic)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk, for creaminess)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten (binder for ricotta)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated, for sharp flavor)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (flat-leaf, for freshness)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture, part-skim, for melting)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add ziti pasta and cook al dente according to package directions (about 2 minutes less than usual for preventing mushy pasta). Drain well and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, stirring to crumble, until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, water (or wine), oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, and parsley. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
7. Layer half of the cooked ziti in the prepared casserole dish. Top with half of the meat sauce, then dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
8. Repeat layers with the remaining ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta. Finish by sprinkling the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is golden-brown and melted. For a crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully.
10. Rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
    > Pro-Tip: For a truly flavorful and hearty pasta bake, let your meaty marinara sauce simmer for at least 30-60 minutes on low heat. This deepens the flavor profile and helps the acidic balance in marinara mellow out, making for an ultimate comfort food experience.

2. Craft a Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake Your Family Will Love

Save this creamy chicken pasta bake for a guaranteed family favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 lb penne pasta (or other short, sturdy pasta like rigatoni)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole milk for best creaminess)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture, part-skim)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add penne pasta and cook al dente according to package directions (again, slightly less than full cooking time). Drain and set aside.
3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breast pieces and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside; shred or dice once cool enough to handle.
4. In the same skillet (or a separate saucepan), melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, stirring until smooth and thickened. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. Continue to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, thickened by the roux.
6. Stir in 1/2 cup of the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
7. In the casserole dish, combine the cooked penne pasta, shredded chicken, and creamy sauce. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan and the 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is golden-brown.
10. Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
    > Pro-Tip: To ensure a truly creamy chicken pasta bake that doesn’t dry out, consider using a good quality bechamel sauce as your base. The emulsification of sauce is key. And for extra depth, lightly degraze your pan with a splash of white wine after browning the chicken before making your roux.

3. Create Hearty Ground Beef Lasagna Roll-Ups (Easy Weeknight Edition)

Pin these individual lasagna roll-ups for your next easy weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

• 12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or traditional)
• 1 lb ground beef (lean, 85/15 recommended)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz jar marinara sauce (good quality, for convenience)
• 1/2 cup water (if sauce is too thick)
• 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk, for creaminess)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for freshness)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. If using traditional noodles, boil lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente; drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Lay flat on parchment paper. If using oven-ready, skip this step.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour about 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the dish and spread evenly.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, stirring to crumble. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in remaining marinara sauce and water (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
5. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1/4 cup Parmesan, and parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
6. To assemble: Lay a lasagna noodle flat. Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodle. Top with 2-3 tablespoons of the ground beef mixture and sprinkle with a small amount of mozzarella cheese.
7. Starting from one short end, carefully roll up the noodle. Place the rolled-up noodle seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with remaining noodles and fillings.
8. Once all roll-ups are in the dish, sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese and a little extra Parmesan over the top.
9. Bake, covered with aluminum foil, for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden-brown.
10. Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
    > Pro-Tip: For truly easy weeknight lasagna, use no-boil lasagna noodles. This eliminates a messy prep step and speeds up assembly. Ensure your sauce is warm when layering, as this helps the no-boil noodles soften correctly during baking. This method creates individual lasagna portions that are perfect for quick meal prep and leftover pasta ideas.

4. Bake the Ultimate Easy Cheesy Mac & Cheese for Family Dinner

Pin this ultimate mac & cheese bake for your next family dinner!

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or other small pasta)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 5 cups milk (whole milk for best richness)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle kick)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (enhances cheese flavor)
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded, for superior melt)
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere or mozzarella cheese (for extra flavor and stretch)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add elbow macaroni and cook al dente according to package directions (about 2 minutes less than usual). Drain well and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickened by the roux. Reduce heat to low.
5. Stir in salt, pepper, cayenne (if using), and Dijon mustard. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Gruyere/mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. The creamy cheese sauce should be luscious.
6. Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and toss to combine, ensuring all noodles are evenly coated.
7. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
8. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden-brown and crispy.
10. Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
    > Pro-Tip: For the ultimate comfort food, use a combination of cheeses – sharp cheddar for flavor, and Gruyere or low-moisture mozzarella for that incredible stretch and creaminess. Freshly grating your cheese makes a huge difference in how smoothly it melts and combines into a luscious sauce, significantly enhancing the emulsification of sauce for your easy cheesy pasta.

5. Whip Up a Spicy Sausage & Ricotta Baked Pasta for Flavorful Weeknight Dining

Pin this spicy sausage and ricotta baked pasta for a truly flavorful weeknight meal!

Ingredients

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta (or large penne)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste, for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook rigatoni al dente according to package directions (about 2 minutes less than usual). Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add spicy Italian sausage and cook, crumbling with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to infuse. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan, egg, and half of the chopped basil. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
7. In the baking dish, combine the cooked rigatoni with the sausage-tomato sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
8. Layer half of the pasta mixture in the prepared dish. Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
9. Repeat layers with remaining pasta mixture. Finish by sprinkling the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
10. Bake, covered with foil, for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is golden-brown.
11. Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with remaining fresh basil.
    > Pro-Tip: For maximum flavorful weeknight results, use a high-quality spicy Italian sausage and don’t be afraid to brown it well to develop umami-rich ingredients and contribute to the Maillard reaction that enhances the overall taste. The contrast of the spicy sausage with the creamy ricotta is what makes this hearty pasta bake truly special.

6. Bake a Simple Veggie-Loaded Penne Bake for a Healthier Option

Pin this healthy baked pasta for a flavorful and veggie-loaded meal!

Ingredients

• 1 lb penne pasta (whole wheat or regular)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 24 oz jar marinara sauce (vegetable-based)
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture, part-skim)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook penne pasta al dente according to package directions (about 2 minutes less than usual). Drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and spinach until spinach wilts.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and vegetable broth. Add dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked penne pasta with the vegetable-sauce mixture. Toss gently to coat.
6. Sprinkle 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese and the Parmesan cheese over the pasta mixture.
7. Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.
8. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
   > Pro-Tip: To pack in hidden nutrition and maximize umami-rich ingredients in your veggie-loaded penne bake, try roasting your bell peppers and zucchini before adding them to the sauce. This brings out their natural sweetness and deepens their flavor, creating a more flavorful weeknight dinner even without meat. The porosity of different pasta shapes like penne makes it perfect for catching and holding the sauce and small veggie bits.

7. Make-Ahead Comfort: The Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole Bake

Pin this classic tuna noodle casserole for the ultimate make-ahead meal!

Ingredients

• 8 oz wide egg noodles
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk for richness)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
• 2 (5 oz) cans tuna in water, drained and flaked
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping, optional)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish.
2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickened by the roux. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Stir in thawed peas, flaked tuna, and 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (if using) until cheese is melted and combined.
7. Add the cooked egg noodles to the sauce mixture and toss gently to coat.
8. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle additional cheddar cheese over the top.
9. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and the topping is golden-brown and crispy.
11. Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
    > Pro-Tip: For the ultimate comfort food that’s budget friendly, use quality tuna in water for a lighter flavor, or tuna in oil for extra richness. To make this a truly make-ahead friendly casserole, assemble it entirely (without the breadcrumb topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add the topping just before baking. This proven technique ensures a crispy top on pasta bake even after refrigeration.

Key Takeaways

Your journey to mastering baked dinner recipes pasta is all about a few simple, yet critical, steps. By keeping these points in mind, you can ensure every comforting pasta bake you make is a resounding success, perfect for any easy weeknight dinner.

• Choose the Right Pasta: Selecting the correct pasta shape like ziti, penne, or rigatoni for baked dinner recipes pasta and cooking it al dente is crucial to prevent mushy pasta during baking.

• Build a Flavorful Base: A rich meaty marinara sauce or a smooth creamy cheese sauce serves as the foundation for any comforting pasta bake, often enhanced with umami-rich ingredients like browned meat or roasted vegetables.

• Embrace the Cheese: Layering a combination of low-moisture mozzarella for melt and Parmesan cheese for flavor is key to achieving a golden-brown and bubbly pasta dinner with the perfect crispy top.

• Master Make-Ahead Meals: Many baked pasta dishes are inherently make-ahead friendly, allowing for quick meal prep by assembling them in advance and baking when ready, making them ideal easy weeknight dinners.

• Personalize Your Bake: Easily customize your family favorite recipe by adding protein to your pasta bake (chicken, ground beef, spicy Italian sausage) or hidden veggies to suit dietary needs and preferences.

• Ensure Proper Baking: Baking until bubbly and golden-brown at the right oven temperature and covering initially with foil helps maintain moisture and prevents the baked pasta from drying out.

• Don’t Skip the Rest: Allowing your casserole dish to rest for 5-15 minutes after baking helps the layers set and makes for easier, cleaner serving, showcasing carryover cooking in casseroles.

People Also Ask About Baked Dinner Recipes Pasta

How long do you bake pasta in the oven?

Most baked dinner recipes pasta typically require baking for 25-45 minutes at 350-375°F (175-190°C). The exact time depends on whether the pasta was fully cooked beforehand, the type of sauce, and if the dish was assembled warm or cold. Bake until the sauce is bubbly around the edges and the cheese topping is golden-brown and melted.

Do you have to cook pasta before baking?

Yes, it’s generally recommended to cook pasta al dente before baking in a pasta bake recipe. Cooking it slightly underdone (about 2 minutes less than package directions) prevents mushy pasta as it finishes cooking in the oven, absorbing the sauce without becoming overly soft. Some recipes use oven-ready (no-boil lasagna noodles), which don’t require pre-cooking.

What is the best pasta for a bake?

The best pasta for a baked dinner recipes pasta is typically a short, sturdy shape that can hold up to baking and capture sauce well, such as ziti, penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni. These shapes prevent mushy pasta and ensure each bite has a good ratio of pasta, sauce, and cheese. Lasagna noodles are also excellent for layered bakes like lasagna roll-ups.

How do you keep pasta bake from drying out?

To keep pasta bake from drying out, ensure there’s enough sauce to coat the pasta generously and consider covering the dish with aluminum foil for at least the first half of baking. This traps moisture. Using whole milk in creamy sauces or adding a splash of broth can also help. A thickened by roux-based sauce also prevents dry sauce.

Can you make pasta bake ahead of time?

Absolutely, baked dinner recipes pasta are often make-ahead friendly meals, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. You can assemble the entire dish (without the crunchy topping if using one) and refrigerate it for 1-2 days. Let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking, then bake as directed, potentially adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

What goes well with a pasta bake for dinner?

A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette perfectly complements the flavor and richness of a hearty pasta bake. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is also a classic pairing, ideal for soaking up any extra saucy goodness. For a lighter meal, simple roasted green vegetables also pairs with most baked pasta dishes.

How do you freeze a cooked pasta bake?

To freeze a cooked pasta bake, ensure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. Label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This is a great make-ahead meal strategy.

Why is my pasta bake dry?

Your pasta bake might be dry due to several factors: insufficient sauce, overcooked pasta before baking, or baking uncovered for too long. Pasta continues to absorb sauce in the oven, so starting with slightly more sauce than seems necessary and partially covering the dish during baking can help maintain moisture and prevent dry sauce.

How to reheat baked pasta without it getting mushy?

To reheat baked pasta without it getting mushy, add a splash of water, milk, or broth to the portion, cover loosely with foil, and reheat in the oven at 300-325°F (150-160°C) until warmed through. Microwaving is quicker but can dry it out or make it rubbery. The key is gentle, moist heat to avoid overcooking and preserve texture.

Can you use raw pasta in a bake?

While some specific recipes (like certain one-pan dinner casseroles) might call for raw pasta, for most traditional baked dinner recipes pasta, it’s best to pre-cook the pasta to al dente. Using raw pasta can lead to it not cooking evenly, absorbing too much liquid (making the dish dry), or ending up with a tougher, undercooked texture.

Final Thoughts on Baked Dinner Recipes Pasta

In a busy world where weeknight dinner ideas can often feel like a culinary puzzle, baked dinner recipes pasta truly stand out as the ultimate comfort food solution. From the classic baked ziti recipe to the creamy chicken pasta bake and make-ahead friendly casserole, these dishes offer a perfect blend of hearty, cheesy, and utterly delicious flavors with unparalleled ease. We’ve explored how simple techniques, strategic ingredient choices, and clever prep can transform basic ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.

Embracing the world of baked pasta dishes means unlocking a treasure trove of easy weeknight dinners that are not only fulfilling but also highly adaptable. Whether you’re aiming for a healthy baked pasta with hidden veggies or a spicy Italian sausage kick, the foundational principles remain the same: cook pasta al dente, build a flavorful sauce, layer with plenty of low-moisture mozzarella, and bake until golden-brown and bubbly. With these kitchen-tested recipes and expert advice, you’re now equipped to create family favorite recipes that will bring warmth and joy to your table night after night.

Which of these 7 ultimate baked pasta recipes are you most excited to try for your next easy weeknight dinner?

Last update on 2026-01-08 at 19:23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API