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The Cheesy Neapolitan Dream Bake is a heartwarming dish that brings the rich culinary tradition of Naples to your dining table. This recipe is a celebration of flavors, textures, and comfort, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With its combination of tender pasta, luscious marinara sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses, this bake not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms the soul.

Easy Neapolitan Pasta Bake

Discover the warmth of home-cooked comfort with the Cheesy Neapolitan Dream Bake. This delightful dish layers tender penne pasta, robust marinara sauce, and a rich blend of creamy cheeses, making it perfect for family meals and gatherings. The straightforward recipe is easy enough for novice cooks to master, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious bite. Elevate your dinner table experience with this heartwarming, cheesy delight that’s sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for cooking your pasta bake.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, fill it with generously salted water and bring it to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside in a large mixing bowl.

      Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with the cooked penne, add the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of the grated Parmesan, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking, and stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the cheesy, herby sauce mixture.

        Assemble the Bake: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top the dish with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to create a melty, golden crust.

          Bake It Up: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture while baking. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and has turned a delightful golden brown color.

            Garnish and Serve: Let the Cheesy Neapolitan Dream Bake cool for a few minutes once it comes out of the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor before serving. Enjoy this warm, cheesy pasta dish with friends and family!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 40 mins | 6 servings