A classic, flexible pasta bake packed with cheese, sauce, and your favorite add-ins—perfect for weeknights or gatherings.

Scale

12 oz penne pasta

3 cups marinara or tomato basil sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Optional: sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken

Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 dish.

Boil pasta until al dente, then drain.

Mix pasta with sauce and seasonings.

Layer half of the pasta mix into dish, top with half the cheese.

Add optional extras, then repeat layering.

Cover with foil and bake 15 minutes.

Remove foil, broil until top is golden.

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Try using lentil pasta for extra protein.

Freezes well both pre- and post-baking.

Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.

Keywords: easy pasta bake, weeknight dinner, cheesy casserole, baked pasta