Description
One Pan Baked Cheesy Basil Pasta is an easy, comforting dish made with pasta, tomato sauce, gooey melted cheese, and fresh basil, all baked together in one pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini)
- 2 1/2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In the dish, combine uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water or broth, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and ensure pasta is submerged.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Uncover, stir gently, and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Return to oven and bake uncovered for another 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Add cooked chicken, sausage, or mushrooms for extra protein.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed, adjusting liquid and cook time.
- Swap in pesto or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 35mg