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Cozy Poor Man’s Pasta Bake

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A budget-friendly, comforting pasta bake with simple ingredients, perfect for cozy nights and quick dinners. This recipe features elbow macaroni, a creamy tomato sauce, and a bubbly cheese topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni or any small pasta shape
  • 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning blend
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
  • Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup frozen peas or spinach
  • Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits or sausage

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil or butter.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds without burning.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer gently for 8-10 minutes. Stir in heavy cream if using.
  5. Mix the drained pasta into the sauce, folding in any optional veggies or cooked meat. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Pour the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top, then grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes, watching carefully.
  8. Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; it will continue cooking in the oven. Use freshly shredded mozzarella for best melting. Simmer sauce gently to thicken and deepen flavor. Add a splash of pasta water if sauce is too thick. Can prepare ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking, adding extra baking time if cold. For dairy-free, substitute cheeses and cream with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta bake, budget dinner, comfort food, easy pasta recipe, cheesy pasta bake, quick dinner, cozy meal

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/cozy-poor-mans-pasta-bake-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-budget-comfort/