One-Pot Cheesy Pasta Bake (Print View)

Comforting pasta layered with melted mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan in a rich tomato sauce.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)

→ Sauce

02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
06 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
07 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
08 - ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
09 - 1 teaspoon salt
10 - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
11 - 2 cups vegetable broth or water

→ Cheeses

12 - 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
13 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

→ Garnish

15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
02 - In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
03 - Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
05 - Add the uncooked pasta and vegetable broth. Stir well, ensuring the pasta is submerged.
06 - Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is just al dente.
07 - Remove from heat. Stir in half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
08 - Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and all of the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
09 - Transfer the pot to the oven and bake uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
10 - Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One-pot wonder means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal
  • Triple cheese blend creates irresistible gooey, melty perfection
  • Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings
  • Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins
02 -
  • Use an oven-safe pot with high sides to prevent overflow during baking
  • Don't skip the resting time—it helps the sauce set and makes serving cleaner
  • Fresh herbs as garnish add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich cheese
  • Save leftover pasta water to thin the sauce if needed when reheating
  • For extra crispy cheese topping, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking
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