Extra-Cheesy One-Pan Baked Pasta
Recipe Overview
Overview
The Extra-Cheesy One-Pan Baked Pasta is a delightful fusion of baked ziti and sausage lasagna, crafted by the talented Melissa Clark. This dish is a celebration of comfort food, combining the rich flavors of sausage with the creaminess of ricotta and mozzarella. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
As the sausage browns, the kitchen fills with a savory aroma, setting the stage for the deliciousness to come. The addition of garlic and fennel seeds elevates the dish, bringing warmth and depth. The use of whole peeled tomatoes adds a rustic touch, while the simmering sauce ensures that the pasta absorbs all the flavors.
What truly makes this dish stand out is the generous amount of cheese. The mozzarella melts into gooey perfection, while dollops of ricotta create creamy pockets throughout the pasta. Topped with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh basil, this baked pasta is not only visually appealing but also a feast for the senses.
Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s easy to customize with your choice of pasta shapes and additional vegetables, making it versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this Extra-Cheesy One-Pan Baked Pasta is bound to impress.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Heat a pan and add bulk sausage, breaking it into small pieces.
Crush fennel seeds using a mortar and pestle or the side of a knife.
Tip: Crush fennel seeds to release their flavor.
Add sliced garlic to the pan and sauté until golden.
Tip: Clean as you go to maintain a tidy workspace.
Add whole peeled plum tomatoes to the pan and break them up.
Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.
Pull apart fresh mozzarella and stir a third into the sauce.
Add dollops of ricotta cheese on top of the pasta.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of the dish.
Ensure the oven is preheated to 425°F.
Broil the dish for a minute for extra browning.
Tip: If you buy fennel sausage, you don't need to add extra fennel.
Tip: Cover the handle of your pot holder when removing hot dishes from the oven to avoid burns.
Tip: Add fresh herbs at the end for more pungent flavor.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Tip: Let the dish sit for 10-15 minutes after baking to solidify before serving.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Almond Milk
Ingredient: Gluten
→ Substitution: Gluten-Free Pasta
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Baked pasta dishes are known for their comforting textures and flavors, making them a popular choice for family meals.
- •Using a variety of pasta shapes can enhance the dish's texture and help capture the sauce.
- •Browning sausage before adding it to the sauce adds depth of flavor through caramelization.
- •Incorporating fresh herbs at the end of cooking preserves their vibrant flavor and aroma.
