When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like a warm, gooey, and utterly satisfying plate of baked pasta. There’s something special about combining al dente noodles with rich, creamy sauces, melted cheeses, and savory meats that just feels like home. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Italian flavors or adventurous twists on traditional recipes, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite creamy baked pasta recipes that are sure to become new staples in your kitchen.
From comforting classics like Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon to more adventurous options like Taco-Style Baked Rotini and Creamy Pumpkin and Sage Baked Pasta, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat-lover, dairy-free or lactose-tolerant, we’ve got recipes that cater to all tastes and dietary needs.
So grab your pasta, cheese, and favorite sauces, and get ready to cozy up with these 20 deliciously creamy baked pasta recipes!
Four Cheese Baked Ziti
This comforting casserole combines the best of four worlds – mozzarella, parmesan, ricotta, and cheddar – to create a rich and satisfying dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth.
4. Add marinara sauce to the cheese mixture and stir well.
5. Combine cooked ziti pasta with the cheese-sauce mixture and mix until coated.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
A creamy and flavorful twist on the classic stuffed shells, this recipe combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the earthy taste of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach leaves, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon
This comforting casserole combines the perfect blend of al dente pasta, crispy bacon, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions 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 a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and paprika. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and let thicken.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese, and bacon in a large mixing bowl. Pour the cheesy sauce over the top and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Baked Penne
Transform classic Alfredo sauce into a satisfying baked penne dish, packed with juicy chicken and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken until cooked through. Add Alfredo sauce and stir until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of penne pasta, followed by a layer of chicken-Alfredo mixture, and finally a layer of cheese mixture.
6. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lasagna Roll-Ups with Meat Sauce
A twist on the traditional lasagna dish, these roll-ups are a fun and easy way to serve up a hearty Italian-inspired meal. With layers of tender meat sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and fresh spinach, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
7. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
8. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the noodles, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped spinach.
9. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mushroom and Gruyère Baked Rigatoni
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and savory dish that combines the flavors of sautéed mushrooms and melted Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz rigatoni
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms; cook until tender and lightly browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rigatoni, mushroom mixture, and Gruyère cheese.
6. Pour in heavy cream and stir until the pasta is well coated.
7. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and top with additional grated Gruyère cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Baked Pasta
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Baked Pasta Recipe
This hearty pasta dish combines spicy Italian sausage, roasted bell peppers, and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying weeknight meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing brunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, sausage mixture, and mozzarella cheese in a baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto and Mozzarella Baked Fusilli
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and indulgent recipe that combines the flavors of pesto, mozzarella, and baked fusilli. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fusilli pasta
– 1/4 cup (60ml) pesto sauce
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto sauce, and olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with sliced mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Baked Cavatappi
A comforting twist on a classic pasta dish, this recipe combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese with the sweetness of steamed broccoli, all wrapped up in a crispy baked cavatappi.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cavatappi pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, grated cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Spaghetti with Garlic Bread Crumbs
This recipe combines the classic flavors of spaghetti and garlic bread into a satisfying, one-dish meal. With its simple preparation and minimal cleanup, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (for garlic bread crumbs)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
6. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle over the baked spaghetti.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Baked Farfalle
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this delightful baked pasta dish, featuring sun-dried tomatoes and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Combine cooked farfalle, tomato mixture, and crumbled goat cheese in a baking dish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is lightly toasted and the goat cheese is melted and creamy.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taco-Style Baked Rotini
This recipe combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of baked pasta, creating a unique and delicious twist. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rotini pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked chicken breast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, diced avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, chicken breast, olive oil, and taco seasoning. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese and crushed tortilla chips.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Baked Rigatoni
Savor the flavors of Italy with this creative twist on classic eggplant parmesan, served atop a bed of baked rigatoni.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup rigatoni pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, toss eggplant slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Spread marinara sauce over cooked rigatoni in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top rigatoni with baked eggplant slices, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Creamy Pumpkin and Sage Baked Pasta
Savor the flavors of fall with this comforting baked pasta dish, where tender pumpkin and savory sage come together in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 cups), cooked and pureed
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tsp chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
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, melt butter over medium heat. Add pumpkin puree, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sage. Stir until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta and pumpkin sauce. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Baked Mac and Cheese
Buffalo Chicken Baked Mac and Cheese combines the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese with the spicy kick of buffalo chicken. This twist on a classic comfort food is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 pound cooked chicken, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add buffalo wing sauce and stir until combined.
5. Add cooked chicken and macaroni to the cheese mixture. Stir until coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni and cheese are heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp Scampi Baked Linguine
Shrimp Scampi Baked Linguine: A Classic Italian-Inspired Dish with a Twist!
This recipe combines the flavors of shrimp scampi with the comfort of baked linguine, creating a delicious and easy-to-make main course.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in white wine (if using) and remove from heat.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked linguine, shrimp mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Baked Orzo with Feta
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the nutty taste of orzo with the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked orzo and toss to combine.
4. Stir in crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the orzo is lightly toasted and the feta is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gouda Baked Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy recipe that combines sweet caramelized onions, sharp Gouda cheese, and tender baked shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup grated Gouda cheese
– 1/2 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 shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
4. In a separate saucepan, combine Gouda cheese and heavy cream. Heat over low heat, stirring until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked pasta shells, caramelized onions, and Gouda sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Gouda cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Baked Penne
Transform your pasta game with this innovative fusion of BBQ and baked penne, featuring tender pulled pork and rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pulled pork (cooked)
– 8 oz. penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine, then simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked penne pasta, pork mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Lobster Baked Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent Garlic Butter Lobster Baked Pasta recipe, featuring succulent lobster meat and a rich, buttery sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (120g) lobster meat (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley
– 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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic; cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add lobster meat; cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, lobster mixture, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Toss to combine.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a comforting culinary experience with these 20 creamy baked pasta recipes! From classic combinations like Four Cheese Baked Ziti and Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, to innovative twists like Taco-Style Baked Rotini and Buffalo Chicken Baked Mac and Cheese, there’s something for every pasta lover. Whether you’re in the mood for rich and cheesy or light and fresh, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to become new family favorites. So go ahead, get baking, and indulge in a world of creamy goodness!