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Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake
A creamy and flavorful pasta bake that combines the richness of artichokes with the nutty taste of spinach, all wrapped up in a velvety cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté artichoke hearts and spinach in melted butter until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and lemon juice. Gradually add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, artichoke-spinach mixture, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
A comforting, creamy pasta bake loaded with chicken, garlic, and a rich alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Three-Cheese Macaroni and Cheese Bake
A comforting classic with a twist, this recipe combines the richness of three cheeses with the simplicity of macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; transfer to a baking dish.
9. Top with additional grated cheese (optional) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Pasta Bake
This hearty pasta bake combines spicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, and creamy cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. penne pasta
– 1 lb. spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and oregano.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Pasta Bake
A creative twist on traditional pasta bakes, this recipe combines the comfort of baked potatoes with the heartiness of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g. penne, fusilli)
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup cooked bacon bits or diced ham
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Meanwhile, bake potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until soft.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, milk, butter, bacon bits or ham, and peas and carrots. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
6. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Bake
This recipe combines the creamy richness of pesto with the sweet, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a satisfying pasta bake.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until well combined.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pasta is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Ranch Pasta Bake
This hearty pasta bake combines spicy buffalo chicken with creamy ranch dressing and penne pasta, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add buffalo wing sauce and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and ranch dressing. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake
A creamy, cheesy, and nutritious pasta bake that combines the flavors of broccoli, cheddar, and garlic.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add broccoli florets, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli mixture, and grated cheddar cheese.
6. Pour in heavy cream and stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Taco-Style Beef and Cheese Pasta Bake
A twist on traditional pasta bakes, this recipe combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning with creamy cheese and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced onion and taco seasoning to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and taco beef mixture in a large bowl.
6. Transfer pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Veggie and Feta Pasta Bake
A flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that combines the freshness of Mediterranean vegetables with the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed Mediterranean vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts)
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, vegetable mixture, and crumbled feta cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bacon and Mushroom Carbonara Pasta Bake
A creamy, savory twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and rich eggs with pasta for a satisfying one-dish meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add mushrooms and garlic to the same skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Add cooked spaghetti, mushrooms, and bacon. Toss until well combined.
6. Transfer pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Lobster and Gruyère Pasta Bake
Transform a classic pasta dish into an indulgent treat with the addition of succulent lobster and rich Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb. cooked lobster meat, diced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, lobster meat, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Gruyère cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Eggplant Parmesan Pasta Bake
A twist on traditional lasagna, this eggplant parmesan pasta bake combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a one-dish meal. Tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese come together in a satisfying casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni)
– 2 cups tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté eggplant slices in a little oil until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a separate pot, combine tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of pasta, followed by a layer of tomato sauce, then a layer of eggplant slices.
6. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese Bake
A comforting twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines tender pulled pork with a creamy BBQ sauce-infused pasta bake.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups pulled pork (BBQ-style)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, pulled pork, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, BBQ sauce, and butter. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Pasta Bake
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Pasta Bake
A flavorful and colorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the red peppers: Place the peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the skin is blistered and charred.
3. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Assemble the bake: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted red peppers, goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake: Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
6. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (optional).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake
Get ready for a comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the best of chicken, bacon, ranch, and pasta!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup of ranch seasoning
– 8 ounces penne pasta
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken and crumbled bacon until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Add ranch seasoning and stir until combined. Set aside.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken-bacon mixture, shredded cheese, and heavy cream. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Cheddar and Butternut Squash Pasta Bake
A comforting and creamy pasta bake that combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the tanginess of white cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 medium butternut squash, cooked and pureed
– 2 cups grated white cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, white cheddar cheese, melted butter, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
A creamy, savory, and indulgent pasta dish that combines the flavors of shrimp scampi with a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to deglaze.
6. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
7. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and cream sauce in a large bowl.
8. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these creamy pasta bake recipes that are sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings! From classic mac and cheese to innovative twists like lobster and gruyère, there’s something for everyone. Try Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake, Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake, or Three-Cheese Macaroni and Cheese Bake – the possibilities are endless! Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, cheesy, or simply satisfying, these 18 creamy pasta bake recipes have got you covered.
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