Life gets hectic, and there are days when cooking a complicated meal just isn’t an option. That’s when Lazy Day Pasta Casserole swoops in to save dinner! This recipe is as easy as it is satisfying, making it the perfect solution for busy individuals and families. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a whole lot of cheesy goodness, this dish brings comfort to the table without breaking a sweat.
With just one dish to bake and almost no cleanup, you’ll have more time to relax while still serving up something hearty and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick family meal or a crowd-pleaser for get-togethers, this recipe has got you covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To whip up this easy pasta casserole, gather the following:
- 12 oz uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or any short pasta works best)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 cup water or broth (to help cook the pasta in the casserole)
- 1 lb ground beef, chicken, or sausage (optional, for a heartier version)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (for that creamy layer)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Optional Mix-Ins:
- Chopped veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach (a sneaky way to add nutrients!)
- A pinch of chili flakes for some heat
- Swap ground meat for plant-based protein crumbles for a vegetarian twist
How to Make Lazy Day Pasta Casserole:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large casserole dish (about 9x13 inches) and lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Meat (Optional)
If you’re using ground beef, chicken, or sausage, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Pour the uncooked pasta directly into the casserole dish. Add the marinara sauce, water or broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a dash of salt and pepper. Stir everything to coat the pasta evenly.
If you cooked meat earlier, mix it in at this step. For extra creaminess, dollop ricotta or cottage cheese in small spoonfuls throughout the dish.
Step 4: Top It Off with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top. These cheeses will melt into a golden, bubbly topping that everyone will love.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes to get that gooey, slightly crispy top.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, saucy perfection!
Tips for Customization and Serving
- Make It Your Own: Use different sauces like Alfredo, vodka sauce, or pesto for a unique twist. You can even combine sauces for extra flavor.
- Meal Prep Favorite: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Perfect for busy schedules!
- Leftovers? No Problem: This casserole reheats wonderfully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze portions for up to a month.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some nutrition by stirring in pre-cooked veggies like broccoli, mushrooms, or shredded carrots.
- Serve with Sides: Pair with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread to complete the meal.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Lazy Day Pasta Casserole is the definition of comfort food. It’s warm, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, but the best part? It requires almost no effort. Whether you’re juggling a busy day at work, corralling the kids, or simply craving something stress-free but delicious, this casserole will hit the spot every time.
Take a break, pop this in the oven, and enjoy a meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Happy cooking!
إرسال تعليق