Cooking pasta in the oven might seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! It’s a great way to make a delicious and simple dinner in just one dish. With just a few ingredients and a few steps, you can make a delicious and filling meal that everyone will love. Here’s everything you need to know about cooking pasta in the oven.
What You Need to Get Started
To get started cooking pasta in the oven, you’ll need some basic ingredients. You’ll need a 16-ounce box of your favorite type of pasta, 1 can of crushed tomatoes, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. You’ll also need a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
Instructions for Cooking Pasta in the Oven
To get started, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until it is al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and transfer it to the baking dish. Add the crushed tomatoes, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper and mix to combine. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and stir to combine. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pasta is cooked through. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Oven-Baked Pasta
Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect oven-baked pasta:
- Be sure to use enough liquid. The pasta needs to be submerged in the liquid for the best results.
- If you want to add vegetables, add them to the baking dish before baking.
- If you want to add meat, cook it first and add it to the baking dish when you’re ready to bake.
- For a creamy dish, stir in a cup of cream or half-and-half when you add the crushed tomatoes.
- For a cheesy dish, add an additional 1/2 cup of grated cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cook pasta in the oven?
It takes about 25 minutes to cook pasta in the oven.
Can you cook dry pasta in the oven?
Yes, you can cook dry pasta in the oven. Be sure to use enough liquid to submerge the pasta.
Can you add vegetables to oven-baked pasta?
Yes, you can add vegetables to oven-baked pasta. Add them to the baking dish before baking.
Can you add meat to oven-baked pasta?
Yes, you can add cooked meat to oven-baked pasta. Add it to the baking dish when you’re ready to bake.
Can you make a creamy oven-baked pasta?
Yes, you can make a creamy oven-baked pasta. Stir in a cup of cream or half-and-half when you add the crushed tomatoes.
