If you're craving a comforting dish that combines the creamy goodness of a white pizza with the heartiness of pasta, look no further! Our White Pizza Pasta Bake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. With its rich ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a hint of garlic, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Ready in just 45 minutes, you’ll have a cheesy, bubbly masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how to elevate your pasta game to a whole new level!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This allows the oven to reach the perfect temperature for baking the pasta dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 3/4 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheeses are fully incorporated.
- Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the cheese mixture. Gently fold the pasta into the cheese mixture until all the pasta is coated.
- Transfer the pasta and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta mixture. This will create a delicious cheesy crust when baked.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious White Pizza Pasta Bake with family and friends!
Tips
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix and match your cheeses! While ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are traditional, adding some provolone or goat cheese can enhance the flavor profile.
- Pasta Perfection: Make sure to cook the penne pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This will ensure that your pasta maintains the perfect texture.
- Herb Enhancements: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cheese mixture. They pair beautifully with the creamy cheeses.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Simply assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate. When you're ready to eat, just pop it in the oven!
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your White Pizza Pasta Bake with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp white wine can also complement the creamy flavors beautifully.
- Leftover Love: This dish reheats wonderfully! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and enjoy it as a quick lunch or dinner option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 65mg
