Cheesy Rotini Pasta Bake

Name: Cheesy Rotini Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 300 g rotini pasta (uncooked); 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded); 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated); 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

45 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

Savour the comforting flavours of this Cheesy Rotini Pasta Bake, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Quick to prepare, it's a dish everyone will love.

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Rotini pasta bake is a delightful comfort food that brings together the warmth of pasta and the richness of cheese in one dish. This recipe is a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a hearty meal that's easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. Our version of the rotini pasta bake emphasizes cheesy goodness with a hint of garlic and herbs, creating a dish that's both flavourful and satisfying. By combining simple ingredients with a straightforward process, this recipe suits both novice and experienced cooks looking to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).

Pro tip: Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking.

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook for 8 minutes, until slightly undercooked. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so don't overcook it now.

Prepare the sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Avoid browning the garlic to prevent bitterness.

Combine pasta and sauce

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Pour the sauce over and stir until well combined.

Pro tip: Mix thoroughly to ensure even coating of sauce and cheese.

Assemble the bake

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

Pro tip: Use freshly grated cheese for best results.

Bake the pasta

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil for the last 5 minutes.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavour.
Undercook the pasta slightly; it will continue cooking in the oven.
Customize with your favourite veggies or protein.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a rotini pasta bake?

A rotini pasta bake is a comforting dish made with cooked rotini pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese, baked until bubbly and golden.

How long do you cook rotini pasta for a bake?

Cook rotini pasta for about 8 minutes until slightly undercooked before baking.

Can I freeze rotini pasta bake?

Yes, you can freeze it. Cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

How many calories are in a serving of rotini pasta bake?

A serving of this rotini pasta bake has approximately 450 calories.

Can I add vegetables to my rotini pasta bake?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavour.

What cheese is best for pasta bake?

Mozzarella and parmesan are great choices for a pasta bake, offering a melty and flavourful topping.

How do you reheat rotini pasta bake?

Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Cheesy Rotini Pasta Bake with a fresh green salad and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. The contrast between the warm, cheesy pasta and the crisp salad makes for a delightful dining experience. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through. This dish also freezes well, providing a convenient option for future meals.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

22g

Protein

20g

Fat

See the whole store

Baking · Cake Rings

CALIFORNIA CADE ELECTRONIC Cake Mold-Cake Ring-Adjustable Round Stainless Steel 6 Inch to 12 Inch Cake Ring Mold - Cake Baking Supplies

$17.99

Pots & Pans · Saucepans

P&P CHEF 2QT Saucepan, Stainless Steel 2 Quart Saucepan with Lid, Multipurpose Sauce Pan for Kitchen Restaurant Cooking, Visible Glass lid & Heat-Proof Handles, Rust Resistant & Dishwasher Safe

$26.99

Pit Boss Grills

Maple Chipotle Rub

$9.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.