Are you a comfort food lover looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters? Look no further! We’ve rounded up 20 creamy pasta bake recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic combinations like cheesy garlic alfredo and spinach and ricotta stuffed shells, to more unique flavor profiles like spicy sausage and pepper and roasted butternut squash, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of creamy pasta bakes, sharing a variety of recipes that are perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even just a cozy night in. Whether you’re a fan of rich and cheesy, light and refreshing, or anything in between, we’ve got you covered with these 20 mouthwatering recipes.
Cheesy Garlic Alfredo Pasta Bake
This comforting pasta bake combines creamy alfredo sauce with the rich flavors of garlic and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, alfredo sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Bake
This Italian-inspired casserole combines tender shells with a creamy spinach and ricotta filling, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a 9×13-inch baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ultimate Four-Cheese Pasta Bake
A rich and satisfying pasta bake that combines four distinct cheeses for a creamy, indulgent meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar, mozzarella, feta, and Parmesan cheeses.
4. Add softened butter to the cheese mixture and mix until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked pasta and marinara sauce. Mix until coated.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the pasta mixture in an even layer. Top with half of the cheese mixture.
7. Repeat layers: pasta, then cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Bake
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce with al dente penne pasta and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, mushrooms, garlic, and oregano in a little oil until cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken-mushroom mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Pasta Bake
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Pasta Bake: A hearty, one-dish meal that combines sweet bell peppers, spicy sausage, and creamy pasta in a flavorful casserole.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni)
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large red bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and sausage mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Lasagna Pasta Bake
A classic Italian-inspired dish gets a comforting twist with this creamy pasta bake. Fresh tomatoes and basil add bright, summery flavor to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz lasagna noodles
– 2 cups tomato sauce
– 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they release their juices, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked lasagna noodles, tomato sauce mixture, and chopped basil. Toss to combine.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake
This satisfying pasta bake combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the healthy goodness of broccoli, all wrapped up in a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add broccoli and cook until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli mixture, and grated cheddar cheese.
5. Pour in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional cheddar cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Veggie Pasta Bake
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish, packed with colorful vegetables and a hint of exotic spices.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, olives)
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– 1 tsp. paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed vegetables, chickpeas, olives, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add cooked pasta to the vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle feta cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the top is lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mac and Cheese Pasta Bake with Bacon
Elevate a classic comfort food by combining al dente pasta, crispy bacon, and a rich macaroni cheese sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add butter and stir in flour to make a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, bacon, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto and Sundried Tomato Pasta Bake
This recipe combines the classic flavors of pesto and sundried tomatoes with al dente pasta, creamy cheese, and a crispy crust. A perfect comforting dish for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, and sundried tomatoes. Mix well to combine.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taco Pasta Bake with Ground Beef
A twist on traditional pasta bakes, this recipe combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of a casserole. Ground beef, tomatoes, and spices come together to create a deliciously savory dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and cooked pasta; season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta Bake
Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta Bake: A flavorful and comforting dish that combines roasted butternut squash with pasta, cheese, and a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash: Cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place cut-side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted squash, cooked pasta, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
5. In a separate bowl, mix grated cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
6. Combine the pasta mixture with the cheese mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
A comforting twist on the classic shrimp scampi, this pasta bake combines tender shrimp, garlic butter, and a rich cream sauce with al dente penne pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, heavy cream, and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Chicken Pasta Bake
This creamy pasta bake combines the smoky flavor of BBQ chicken with al dente penne pasta and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Breadcrumbs and chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and bell pepper until cooked through.
4. Add BBQ sauce, crushed tomatoes, and olive oil to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and mozzarella cheese in a baking dish.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
This Buffalo chicken pasta bake combines the creamy richness of mac and cheese with the spicy kick of buffalo wings, all wrapped up in a satisfying casserole. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken in buffalo wing sauce until cooked through.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a baking dish.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese and cilantro (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Greek-Style Orzo Pasta Bake
This hearty pasta bake combines the comforting warmth of orzo with the bright flavors of Greece. A perfect dish for a cozy night in, it’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, cooked orzo, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with feta cheese and parsley.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pasta is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lobster and Gruyère Pasta Bake
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent lobster meat and rich Gruyère cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wine
– 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (115g) lobster meat, diced
– 1/2 cup (60g) Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic, lobster meat, and white wine until the lobster is pink and cooked through.
4. Combine cooked pasta, lobster mixture, Gruyère cheese, and butter in a baking dish.
5. Top with additional grated Gruyère cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Thyme Pasta Bake
This hearty pasta bake is a perfect blend of earthy mushrooms, aromatic thyme, and comforting pasta. A great way to warm up on a chilly evening!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup mixed wild mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs (if using).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gouda Pasta Bake
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the creaminess of Gouda cheese, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup Gouda cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Combine cooked pasta, caramelized onions, Gouda cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Gouda cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Artichoke Pasta Bake
A flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the tender artichokes, all wrapped up in a creamy bechamel sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and bechamel sauce. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the artichoke mixture; season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a comforting culinary experience! This collection of 20 creamy pasta bakes offers a diverse array of flavors and textures. From classic cheesy garlic alfredo to Mediterranean veggie, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover recipes like ultimate four-cheese pasta bake, spicy sausage and pepper, and roasted butternut squash, among many others. Perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions, these creamy pasta bakes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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