Celebrate the warmth of Christmas with Pasta Al Forno, a beloved Italian dish that combines al dente pasta, a flavorful meat sauce, and gooey layers of mozzarella. This hearty casserole is baked to perfection, offering a cozy and satisfying meal that’s ideal for gatherings and family dinners. Simple to make and sure to impress, this recipe captures the essence of traditional Italian comfort food.
Pasta Al Forno (Baked Pasta) Recipe
Pasta Al Forno features a delightful mix of tender pasta coated in a rich, savory meat sauce, layered with mozzarella and parmesan cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden. This crowd-pleasing dish is ideal for holiday gatherings or family dinners, as it delivers on both flavor and heartiness. Each bite combines creamy cheese, zesty sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a truly comforting meal. Serve with a fresh side salad and crusty bread for a complete Italian feast.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 180°C. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the Parmesan, and basil.
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In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the pasta, then add half of the meat sauce, a layer of the ricotta mixture, and a layer of mozzarella. Repeat the layers, ending with mozzarella on top.
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Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan.
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Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
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Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25g39%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Cholesterol 65mg22%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Potassium 400mg12%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 22g44%
- Vitamin A 700 IU
- Calcium 350 mg
- Iron 2.5 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Customization: Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Prepare and refrigerate a day in advance; bake when ready.
