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Healthy Sheet Pan Dinner for January

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3.8 from 34 reviews

This easy and comforting Cheesy Pasta recipe is perfect for warming up cold winter nights. Featuring tender ziti pasta tossed in rich marinara sauce and topped with a golden blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, this baked pasta dish offers a delightful combination of gooey, savory flavors that satisfy without fuss. Ideal for busy evenings, it requires minimal prep and bakes until bubbly and irresistibly cheesy.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Sauce

  • 12 ounces ziti pasta
  • 2 cups marinara sauce

Cheese Topping

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked ziti with the marinara sauce until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
  3. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the sauced pasta into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  4. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta, then follow with a generous sprinkling of grated parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pasta uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned on top.
  6. Serve: Remove the pasta from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving hot. Enjoy your cozy baked cheesy pasta!

Notes

  • You can use any pasta shape you prefer such as penne or rigatoni.
  • To add more flavor, mix some Italian seasoning or garlic powder into the sauce before mixing with pasta.
  • For a richer dish, stir in a bit of ricotta or cream cheese before baking.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • If you want a crispier cheese topping, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/healthy-sheet-pan-dinner-for-january/