Heavenly Homemakers

Encouraging women in homemaking, healthy eating and parenting

  • Home
    • About
    • FAQs
  • Recipes
    • Bread and Breakfast
    • Condiments
    • Dairy
    • Main Dishes
    • Side Dishes and Snacks
    • Desserts
    • Gluten Free
    • Instant Pot
    • Crock Pot
    • Heavenly Homemaker’s Weekly Menus
  • Homemaking
    • Real Food Sources
  • Store
  • Contact
    • Advertise
    • Disclosure
    • Privacy Policy
  • Simple Meals
  • Club Members!

Easy Italian Pasta Bake

October 26, 2010 by Laura 175 Comments

This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission.

It almost seems silly to even call this a recipe. It’s basically a “cook some noodles in spaghetti sauce, add meat, top with cheese” kind of idea. Goulash in a casserole dish. Spaghetti with different noodles and turned into a casserole. Ah, but instead of letting you know all of that, I’ll act like it’s a fancy dish called…Italian Pasta Bake.

You’re impressed, aren’t you?

Ah well…simple recipes are what I do best. They’re what my family likes best and they’re easy to make. This recipe also freezes well and is easy to make for company.

Italian Pasta BakeYum

1 pound ground beef or turkey
1/4 cup chopped onion or 3 Tablespoons dry minced onion
4 cups tomato sauce
2 cups water
2 Tablespoons basil
1 Tablespoon oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder or one clove fresh garlic
Sea salt to taste
10 ounces whole wheat pasta, any shape (we like bionature brand)
2 cups shredded cheese (we use white cheddar, but you can use mozzarella or any combination of your favorite cheeses)

Brown meat and onion together. Meanwhile, bring tomato sauce, water and herbs and spices to a boil. Stir in pasta and boil until tender. Do not drain. The pasta should have absorbed the liquid! Mix in cooked meat. Salt as desired. Spread mixture into a 9×13 casserole dish and top with cheese. Bake uncovered at 350° for 25 minutes or until cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through and through.

So, do you have a favorite pasta shape?  I think picking the shape of pasta for our dinner is kinda fun. Penne, Fusilli, Rotini, even good ol’ Elbow.

Ah the joy of picking pasta shapes. Am I the only one who thinks this is fun?

Grocery List

Heavenly Homemaker's Club Members: Access your homepage and all your fantastic resources here! Not a member yet? Please join us!

Filed Under: Main Dishes, Recipes

Comments

  1. Jessie Chilson says

    October 26, 2010 at 9:55 am

    easy…perfect! Just what I need :)

    Reply
  2. Shannon H. says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:00 am

    Oh yay! I was planning on making plain, old, boring spaghetti tonight… dinner just got better!

    Reply
  3. Blair says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:03 am

    No way! I love picking the pasta shapes! I’ve always thought I was silly for it. But I’m glad to see someone elses excitement!

    Reply
  4. Christy says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:03 am

    Easy recipes are the best!

    Reply
  5. Marianne says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:03 am

    This must be why I love all your recipes, simple, tasty, real-

    My kids LOVE trying new shapes. We are into the swirly whirly curly shaped one right now, not sure of the real name Lol

    Reply
  6. Kelly Perry says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:04 am

    perfect! we like wagon wheels or bowties but hard to find ww.

    Reply
  7. Cathy says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:06 am

    I’ll have to try this–I’ve never seen the tip about mixing the sauce into the water and cooking the pasta in both! That would certainly simplify things. And, your picture looks perfect–my family’s favorite pasta shape is penne. Thanks for the recipe idea.

    Reply
  8. Wendy says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:06 am

    Great idea! Thanks! =)

    Reply
  9. Rochelle says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:08 am

    Yum! today’s menu plan day. this is definitely going on the list!

    Reply
  10. Ashley says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:13 am

    I really like penne. We had baked ziti this week, but your recipes is way easier and looks yummier!

    Reply
  11. Tina Dill says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:19 am

    I do this same recipe, but put half of it in the pan and spread a layer of sour cream and provolone cheese. Then the rest of the pasta and shredded cheese. My family asks for it frequently!

    Reply
  12. Carrie says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:20 am

    mmmm…my kids love this type of dish too!

    Reply
  13. Stefanie says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:24 am

    Sound yummy! It reminds me of your lasagna casserole that we love to make and eat!

    Reply
  14. Gina says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:27 am

    I was just cleaning out my pantry and found some whole wheat pasta I didn’t know what to do with, now I do!!! Thanks for noter great, healthy and easy recipe!!

    Reply
  15. LadySnow says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:29 am

    That looks so good. I just need to find a decent gluten free pasta to substitute with. :-)

    Reply
    • Courtney says

      October 26, 2010 at 10:36 am

      We really like the gluten-free pasta made by Bionaturae. You can get it from Amazon. I ordered a case of the fusilli and have used it in all kinds of different pasta recipes and it tastes great.

      Reply
    • anna says

      June 19, 2019 at 10:43 am

      We get Quinoa/Rice noodles from Azure Standard. They have all the different shape choices (penne, elbow, fusilli, etc) and taste amazing like you’d never know they were different than the normal! But we know there is no gluten and more nutritional value!!! Win win win!

      Reply
  16. Sabrina says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:30 am

    Add cheese and no matter how simple the dish it’ll taste delicious!

    Reply
  17. Rebecca says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:30 am

    I made the following recipe last week and it was really good and the children liked it too!
    The original recipe calls for microwaving the whole thing, which I don’t own a microwave. So I cooked the noodles, chopped the zucchini (instead of grilling), sauted the tomatoes, garlic, wine, and broth, and put all of the ingredients into a baking dish and baked at 350 for about 30 min. Very easy!

    Grilled Zucchini Penne Al Fresco

    4 garlic cloves, peeled
    2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes
    3 cups penne pasta
    1 cup vegetable broth
    ¾ cups dry white wine (such as Chardonnay)
    ½ tsp each salt and ground black pepper
    1-1/4 cups lightly packed fresh basil leaves, divided (I used dried)
    1 oz Parmesan cheese grated (about ¼ cup)
    2 cups chopped zucchini

    Reply
    • Karen says

      October 26, 2010 at 12:16 pm

      YUMMY…thanks for sharing!

      Reply
  18. Sally says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:35 am

    This is one of our family favorites too. We add ricotta
    cheese and an egg mixed with all the cheese on top.
    Sort of like lasagna with other pasta shapes. You have
    such great ideas!

    Reply
  19. Gina says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:38 am

    What temperature do you bake this at Laura?

    Reply
    • Laura says

      October 26, 2010 at 10:49 am

      Oh, duh. Sorry about that! 350 degrees. I’ll go edit the post!

      Reply
  20. Sarah @ Davis Family CEO says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:45 am

    I love, love, love pasta bake! We just had it the other night with a big green salad and french bread. Yum!

    Reply
  21. Lenetta says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:49 am

    Actually, we’ve been eating pasta bake kind of things more, and we’re starting to switch back to plain ol’ spaghetti. I forgot how good it is that way, too! :>)

    Reply
  22. Carmen says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:54 am

    Just what my family needs!

    Reply
  23. Sheila says

    October 26, 2010 at 10:58 am

    I also think that the shape changes the taste of the pasta, but that could just be me. I love this idea for a simple pasta dish and will make it soon.

    Reply
  24. Leah Evanson says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:06 am

    This is one of our favorites! We love Italian food!

    Reply
  25. Kristi says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:08 am

    I Love Italian Bake – so so so easy like you said and every one LOVES IT!!! Thanks for sharing it – I make homemade bread with it and serve the bread warm with it – YUM – I am getting hungry just thinking about it!!! :)

    Reply
  26. Robyn O. says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:14 am

    This looks yummy and comforting for a gray-skied day like today here in Montana. Thanks for the recipe!

    Reply
  27. Allyson says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:15 am

    It’s chilly ad windy here today and this just sounds perfect for weather like that.

    Blessings!

    Reply
  28. Danielle says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:15 am

    Just the kind of recipe I love. Yummy, easy, and I have all the ingredients on hand!

    Reply
  29. Angela says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:23 am

    i think that is what we will make for dinner tonight!!!

    Reply
  30. Laurie Plath says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:24 am

    Looks like a good, easy recipe.

    Reply
  31. DorthyM says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:29 am

    this sounds yummy! Hey laura, would this be able to be prepared and then frozen? Would it be better to have it uncooked or cooked to freeze it? I’m thinking of making some meals to freeze for my mom and brother.

    Reply
    • Laura says

      October 26, 2010 at 11:35 am

      Yep, you can freeze it. I’d say put it all together (with cooked noodles and meat) but don’t bake it until you thaw it.

      Reply
  32. Natasha says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:29 am

    I like the idea of cooking the pasta in the sauce! I’m going to try it!

    Reply
  33. Rachel B says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:32 am

    I love freezer meals, but I’ve never frozen pasta before. It comes out OK? Any tips for the freezing/defrosting/reheating process to keep the pasta in good shape? This looks really yummy! I’m afraid I’d eat it ALL, though! :) And I can’t possibly think of a favorite pasta shape – they’re all SO good!

    Reply
    • Laura says

      October 26, 2010 at 11:36 am

      Yeah, pasta freezes just fine. I sometimes even put it directly from the freezer into a cold oven, then turn the oven on and let it thaw and cook at the same time!

      Reply
  34. Merry Jo says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:43 am

    I like bowties. :)

    Reply
  35. Suanna says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:49 am

    I do something like this fairly often, too.

    Reply
  36. Mary Voogt says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:49 am

    Sounds very similar to the one we make. Yum!!
    http://voogtrecipes.blogspot.com/2008/12/italian-pasta-bake.html

    Reply
  37. Teresa says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:57 am

    I think cottage cheese could make this better!

    Reply
  38. Esther L says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:58 am

    Sounds yummy and I love the idea of popping it into the freezer for dinner on another night. Thanks for the great post!

    Reply
  39. Kimberly says

    October 26, 2010 at 11:58 am

    My daughter’s favorite is “little wheels”. She loves spaghetti, but make it with little wheels and she’s set!

    Reply
  40. Julie G says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:00 pm

    This sounds great…think I’ll try it!

    Reply
  41. Amy says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:03 pm

    This recipe seems easy and delicious. I will have to make it soon. thanks

    Reply
  42. Kristin says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:03 pm

    Pasta bake is always an easy and quick meal to get on the table.

    Reply
  43. Pam Frohn says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:04 pm

    This looks great! Do you use just plain sauce to cook it in. I’m wondering if crushed tomatoes would work or if I would be better with marinara. Maybe I should just try both.

    Pam

    Reply
  44. Melanie says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:17 pm

    YUMMY!!!!!!!!! Thanks for the recipe!

    Blessings!
    Melanie

    Reply
  45. Karen says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:18 pm

    Curly….corkscrews…

    Reply
  46. Kimberly says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:19 pm

    Oh pasta…oh casseroles…how I love thee!

    Always great to have a new pasta recipe! We get tired of the same old one! You could throw some fresh spinach in this one, too for another nutritional boost!

    Reply
  47. Danielle says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:27 pm

    Yummo!!!! I’d call this baked ziti tho lol. Funny thing is I was going to make baked ziti tomorrow!

    I like ALL shaples of pasta. I’m not big on the spaghetti, linguini, or fettucini noodles tho. I’ll make those on occasion, but rarely.

    Reply
    • Danielle says

      October 26, 2010 at 12:30 pm

      I’d should be I!

      Reply
  48. Vanessa says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:34 pm

    Yummy! I received this as a freezer meal after the last baby, and everyone loved it (although I had to pick off the cheese…) But it would be pretty easy to skip the cheese on half, or use goat cheese, so it is much nicer than a recipe that mixes the cheese in.

    Reply
  49. Andrea says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:39 pm

    Mmm. Yum. I’ve been using the brown rice penne pasta from Azure. A nice way that I can still have pasta while I’m not eating wheat! This looks so good. Thanks!

    Reply
  50. Carmen says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:42 pm

    I’ve found this is a great way to reuse and sometimes even “expand” spaghetti night leftovers. It seems we use less sauce in baked dishes like this than when serving spaghetti and sauce separately.

    Reply
  51. Taryn says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:47 pm

    This sounds like something I would have eaten a few months ago and loved it. I have had to cut out grains for a bit- but maybe noodle free would be just as good . . .

    Reply
    • Exchanges with Spelt says

      October 26, 2010 at 6:29 pm

      Spaghetti Squash!!! Just cook the squash and then add it as you would noodles, delish!!

      Reply
      • Taryn says

        October 26, 2010 at 7:15 pm

        What a great idea! Thanks.

        Reply
  52. Debra says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:53 pm

    I love pasta – how about a different shape for each day of the week :) Thanks for another great (and easy) recipe!

    Reply
  53. Heather says

    October 26, 2010 at 12:54 pm

    It sounds so much better, doesn’t it? :) I need to be better with names as I am often a make it up as I go cook. Then my husband asks what it is and I’ll say that I don’t know, but if he likes it he better enjoy it because it may never taste like that again! And then we laugh.

    I need better names!
    Heather

    Reply
  54. Leah says

    October 26, 2010 at 1:08 pm

    my family has a dish called 4-Pasta beef bake…we get to pick 4 shapes of pasta for one casserole…basically it’s the same as your Italian beef bake.

    Reply
  55. Nancy Michel says

    October 26, 2010 at 1:30 pm

    Looks delicious!!! Will be a definate one to try.

    I would like the what to do with the chicken in my kitchen e-cookbook

    Reply
  56. Ashley Godoy says

    October 26, 2010 at 1:34 pm

    Love the ease of this recipe! Farfalle (I think…) is a fun one!

    Reply
  57. Lindsey @ Enjoying Healthy Foods says

    October 26, 2010 at 1:48 pm

    Love the simplicity of this recipe! Parade on!

    Reply
  58. Tracey says

    October 26, 2010 at 1:56 pm

    Our favorite is farfalle – or bowtie pasta, as my girls call it!

    Reply
  59. BethAnn says

    October 26, 2010 at 1:59 pm

    I love the idea of not cooking my noodles separate. I am new to your blog, I’m still learning, but I absolutely love your recipes. I am limited on what I can try as my daughter has a severe egg allergy! Thank you for inspiring me.

    Reply
  60. Debbie says

    October 26, 2010 at 2:00 pm

    In the North country this dish is called Ziti. It’s a favorite dish among Northeners.

    Reply
  61. Amanda Sikes says

    October 26, 2010 at 2:05 pm

    My children love pasta cooked almost anyway. And I love the ease and versitility of pasta. One of our favorites is chicken, pasta, cheese, and cream of chicken soup.

    Reply
  62. Angie says

    October 26, 2010 at 2:05 pm

    Pick me!!!

    Reply
  63. Erin says

    October 26, 2010 at 2:08 pm

    Pasta shapes. I am always trying to find good ones for my three year old. He will eat more if the shapes are fun

    Reply
  64. Ivette says

    October 26, 2010 at 2:18 pm

    interesting way to boil the noddles! will have to give it a try!

    Reply
  65. Erin says

    October 26, 2010 at 2:34 pm

    I need a quick easy dish for a potluck tomorrow night, I think this might be the one. Thanks for the health, quick, easy, tasty recipes.

    Reply
  66. Bethany B. says

    October 26, 2010 at 2:51 pm

    Yum!!!! Can’t beat that combo of ingredients!!! I’m going to try it with bowtie pasta, it’s my favorite & makes my meals seem a bit more fancy :)

    Reply
  67. Jessie says

    October 26, 2010 at 3:17 pm

    I love changing up the pasta shapes! It’s part of the fun of eating a pasta dish!

    Reply
  68. melanie says

    October 26, 2010 at 3:21 pm

    whoops! almost missed this post! =) And now I want Italian for supper instead of egg rolls…

    Reply
  69. [email protected] says

    October 26, 2010 at 4:14 pm

    We love your pasta recipes! Thanks!

    Reply
  70. Phil says

    October 26, 2010 at 4:21 pm

    You never can go wrong with a good pasta recipe.

    Reply
  71. susan says

    October 26, 2010 at 5:00 pm

    i love the bow tie pasta. My dh makes a delish dish with penne, feta, an oil & garlic sauce, pepperocinis, and black olives. we never knew what to call it so one night the kids asked what was for dinner and i said “daddy’s special pasta.” it’s been special pasta ever since.

    Reply
  72. Cheryl says

    October 26, 2010 at 5:08 pm

    I’ve done my own variations of this also. Very good!

    Reply
  73. Kristina says

    October 26, 2010 at 5:13 pm

    That’s so funny! I love to pick out different pasta shapes, it makes my family feel like they are getting variety even with the same recipe. My husband’s favorite is gemeli.

    Reply
  74. Emily says

    October 26, 2010 at 5:24 pm

    I love it, how cute are your boys!?! And I love how their distinct personalities totally shine through in these pictures. (I mean, not that I know you or them but am assuming that their responses are telling). Not to mention, I ‘feel’ like I know you. Really enjoy your blog and your commitment to your family and our God.

    Reply
    • Emily says

      October 26, 2010 at 5:25 pm

      oop this totally go in the wrong post’s responses. . . the potato one :)

      Reply
  75. Merrilee says

    October 26, 2010 at 5:41 pm

    It is always good to get the reminder about a “basic” recipe!

    Reply
  76. Sarah says

    October 26, 2010 at 6:20 pm

    I love your simple recipes! They’re just what I need!

    Reply
  77. Nicole Brewer says

    October 26, 2010 at 6:29 pm

    I’ve never tried cooking my pasta in with the sauce. Will definitely try this. Can’t wait to try this recipe. Some nights I really need easy.. but always like homemade!! Thanks for sharing :)

    Reply
  78. Annie says

    October 26, 2010 at 7:32 pm

    I’ve become a fan of the Barilla mini pastas lately, although I wish they had the whole wheat variety. The mini spirals and bowties are so much fun for little fingers!

    Reply
  79. Blair says

    October 26, 2010 at 8:10 pm

    This sounds totally yummy, but the inside of my oven is totally yucky. I can’t cook anything in there, because the stuff that is burnt on the boTtom smells bad and when I open it I feel like I’m gona hurl. Could be bc I’m prego. Lol

    Reply
  80. Sacha says

    October 26, 2010 at 9:28 pm

    Sounds like a great recipe. I think I have every shape of pasta in my pantry right now. I might be obsessed with pasta shapes. Especially the mini pastas.

    Reply
  81. Nicole S. says

    October 27, 2010 at 3:50 am

    I’m definitely a fan of penne. Seems to be just the right ratio of noodle to sauce.

    Reply
  82. Jennifer S. says

    October 27, 2010 at 4:47 am

    Great recipe. Pasta is always a big hit in our home.

    Reply
  83. JOellyn says

    October 27, 2010 at 6:22 am

    My daughter’s fave shape is the mini bow ties!! And this recipe looks so good. wishing I had read the blog yesterday…next time!! lol!

    Reply
  84. Jami says

    October 27, 2010 at 6:40 am

    Different pastas are fun. Keeps it exciting! I do like Rigatoni! This sounds like the lasagna casserole that you make! We love it! I like the name better here though! Ha! Would love to win an ebook. All of them I have so far are awesome!!!

    Reply
  85. Elaine says

    October 27, 2010 at 7:34 am

    How do you cook it so the bottom doesn’t burn with tomato sauce. When I tried the creamy mac and cheese, our noodles didn’t get done and the sauce was too thick. I loved the idea of not using another pan to cook noodles. I am all about saving dishes to not wash!!

    Reply
  86. Theresa C says

    October 27, 2010 at 7:57 am

    Mmm, that sounds yummy and easy, just my style! Thanks Laura!

    Reply
  87. Janeen says

    October 27, 2010 at 8:28 am

    Mmmmm! I love “bow-ties.” They are sooo much fun!

    Reply
  88. Hope says

    October 27, 2010 at 8:32 am

    We make this recipe all the time! It is so simple to make, my daughters can make it all by themselves (ages 12, 10, 7). And everyone loves it! But thanks for the tip about preparing the noodles in the sauce. That will definitely make for easier clean up.

    Reply
  89. Nancy K says

    October 27, 2010 at 8:32 am

    This is also good with ground deer or elk. Yum

    Reply
  90. Dana says

    October 27, 2010 at 8:59 am

    Sounds yummy! I’ve made something similar in the past, seems like it’s time to break out that dish again!

    I would love to win one of your ebooks! There are so many that look good!

    Reply
  91. Christina says

    October 27, 2010 at 9:46 am

    My kid and I choose our fav pasta by it’s name. Right now we love the word Ziti. Not only is it good but it is fun to say.

    Reply
  92. Jackie says

    October 27, 2010 at 11:50 am

    Can you use precooked pasta with this and omit the water? I might give it a try! Thanks!

    Reply
  93. Katrina says

    October 27, 2010 at 12:46 pm

    We make a similar dish and call it not-zanya. I like to use Farfale pasta, just cuz it’s fun to say!

    Reply
  94. Michelle says

    October 27, 2010 at 12:47 pm

    I do this often as well–I try to add ricotta for extra yumminess. It’s so much easier than lasagna and almost as good!

    Reply
  95. Sarah DJ says

    October 27, 2010 at 2:15 pm

    I love pasta shapes – fusili and rotini can fill in for any shape in my opinion, so I use them the most!

    Reply
  96. Debbie says

    October 27, 2010 at 3:33 pm

    Bowtie is the BEST. The shape is just fun to eat and it makes me think of my youngest granddaughter!

    Reply
  97. AmyR says

    October 27, 2010 at 4:36 pm

    Sounds like something my family will love.

    Reply
  98. Lorinda says

    October 27, 2010 at 7:30 pm

    Our favorite is Rotini and the tube like pasta in tomato dishes and bowtie,elbow or mini shells for macaroni salads. We have made a similiar dish and called it Western Mac. I’ve also heard it called Ziti.

    Reply
  99. Mandy says

    October 27, 2010 at 8:19 pm

    I hadn’t thought to cook the pasta with the sauce, my kids love a good pasta bake! I will try this tomorrow!

    Reply
  100. Jaclyn says

    October 27, 2010 at 10:36 pm

    This recipe sounds delish!! When you freeze it, do you first assemble, bake, freeze, then bake again. Or assemble, freeze, then bake?

    Reply
    • Laura says

      October 28, 2010 at 6:37 am

      Assemble, then freeze…then thaw and bake. Or don’t thaw…just put it in the oven, turn the oven on about 275 and let it thaw and heat at the same time!

      Reply
  101. april says

    October 28, 2010 at 2:19 am

    Yum! I’ve never boiled the noodles right in the tomato sauce!

    Reply
  102. Rebekah says

    October 29, 2010 at 8:29 am

    Comfort food!

    Reply
  103. Paula says

    October 30, 2010 at 11:07 am

    You could hide some white navy beans in there too for extra lean protein/fiber. Also, I recently tried cooking my noodles in the sauce and the liquid did not absorb so much. I thought it was my whole wheat noodles (the recipe called for regular pasta noodles) but I see that is what you use.

    Reply
  104. Becky says

    November 2, 2010 at 3:50 pm

    This recipe was delicious! My two year old daughter had four helpings and my seven year old son had three helpings! Loved it! Also, shared the leftovers with my staff the next day!

    Reply
  105. Irene says

    November 21, 2010 at 2:38 pm

    Try adding ricotta mixed with one beaten egg, parmesan, fresh italian parsley, salt and pepper. Stir it into the pasta before you bake it. Then, add the mozzarella on top. I’m 100% Italian and this is how we’ve been making this recipe for years.

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      June 16, 2011 at 7:58 pm

      What are your measurements for the added ingredients?

      Reply
    • June says

      May 29, 2015 at 5:40 pm

      Hi How much ricotta and parmesan and how much Italian parsley

      Reply
  106. Jackie says

    December 13, 2010 at 12:00 pm

    If I wanted to make this ahead of time and freeze it, do you recommend just getting it all prepared. Then freezing instead of baking for 20 minutes, and then defrosting and baking? Or would you bake it ahead of time, then freeze it and heat it up?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Laura says

      December 13, 2010 at 3:13 pm

      I’d say freeze before you bake, defrost, then bake.

      Reply
  107. Kristen B. says

    December 20, 2010 at 7:17 pm

    Just tried making this tonight for a family full of picky eaters and it was a HUGE hit!!! I am SO excited to try more recipes!! Thank you for sharing all your lovely creations!

    Reply
  108. Jackie H says

    December 26, 2010 at 6:21 pm

    I tried making it but the pasta got a bit burnt on the bottom before the pasta on top got cooked all the way through – did this happen to you? How did you keep the pasta from sticking? Thanks so much for this recipe!

    Reply
    • Laura says

      December 31, 2010 at 10:43 am

      I’ve never had this trouble…you may need to cook it at a lower temperature next time? You could also butter your pan to keep your pasta from sticking.

      Reply
      • rona says

        January 5, 2013 at 4:22 pm

        This is Baked Ziti. Cover with tin foil, and bake. Remove tin foil last 15 minutes and add mozzarella to melt on the top. TIP: Before putting tin foil on spray with cooking spray so taht the sauce does not “eat” into the tin foil.

        Reply
    • Gina says

      December 31, 2010 at 11:21 am

      I tried to reply here so you could read it Jackie H . . . See my post below. I had the same problem!

      Reply
      • Jackie H says

        January 12, 2011 at 8:33 pm

        Thanks, Gina & Laura!

        Reply
  109. darialauren says

    December 27, 2010 at 1:10 pm

    i wonder could you use leftover chicken parmesan cut up into the pasta instead of ground beef/turkey??

    Reply
    • Laura says

      December 31, 2010 at 10:43 am

      Sure, chicken parmesan in this recipe sounds delicious!

      Reply
  110. Gina says

    December 31, 2010 at 11:19 am

    I had it happen each time I made it so I just wound up adding an extra cup of water and it helped a little. It still stuck some but it didn’t burn with the extra water. Maybe its the past we are using. It seems to take quite a while for mine to cook and the water seems to evaporate before its done. It still turns out great, my picky-eaters love it.

    Reply
  111. Michele says

    February 7, 2011 at 10:36 am

    I make this too and my family loves it when I add in sliced or diced up pepperoni. YUM!

    Reply
  112. laura says

    February 8, 2011 at 3:44 pm

    My family loved this recipe. I doubled it and put one in the freezer. So glad I did. Looking forward to having it again. I love all your recipes. Made the corndogs the other day and planning on making your Honey Whole Wheat Bread next. I’ve made a ton of them and we’ve loved them all so far.

    Reply
    • Abbey says

      August 21, 2012 at 3:52 pm

      The honey whole wheat bread is the BEST! I’ve stopped buying bread and have been baking this every week! We made the italian pasta bake tonight and added a mish mash of veggies we had laying around – spinach, mushrooms, peppers, etc. It was delicious! So glad I found this blog Laura!

      Reply
  113. Ceyla says

    February 21, 2011 at 9:41 am

    Good recipe, Laura! I’ve made this for years and had the problem of the pasta burning, so I cooked the pasta for 3/5 minutes first and then added it. Also, I buttered the pan very well. When I have left over veggies or am cleaning out the freezer, I add either green beans, peas or corn.
    Ceyla

    Reply
  114. Kelly @ The Nourishing Home says

    March 6, 2011 at 3:59 pm

    I am impressed! This is a wonderful recipe and I never had thought about cooking the pasta noodles in tomato sauce, so thank you for the great idea! Blessings, Kelly http://www.facebook.com/TheNourishingHome

    Reply
  115. gillian says

    April 8, 2011 at 2:24 pm

    My three extremely picky kids all said that this was the best dinner that they had ever eaten—Thank you!!!

    Reply
  116. terri says

    June 17, 2011 at 2:51 pm

    I put whichever noodles I have and a jar of favorite sauce in a pan the night before, put in fridge and the next day top with cheese, mushrooms, olives and bake, no need to boil pasta.

    Reply
    • Steph (The Cheapskate Cook) says

      June 21, 2011 at 7:52 pm

      Woah! What a great idea!! Especially in the heat of summer when cooking anything cranks up the temperature of the kitchen.

      Reply
  117. Leeann says

    June 21, 2011 at 7:59 pm

    To keep the noodles from sticking/ my daughter in law uses a capful of olive oil in the pasta water. It might help with the burning.

    Reply
  118. melisha says

    July 12, 2011 at 11:25 am

    can you use regular spaghetti sauce instead?

    Reply
    • Laura says

      July 12, 2011 at 1:38 pm

      Sure, that’ll work!

      Reply
  119. Leanne says

    September 12, 2011 at 8:17 am

    My family loved it! We are making it to take to some friends tonight.

    Reply
  120. Susan Alexander says

    October 9, 2011 at 2:25 pm

    Confused on the “tomato sauce” – can this be plain tomato sauce (like from a can) or does it really need to be seasoned sauce (like what you’d add meat to for spaghetti)?

    Reply
    • Laura says

      October 9, 2011 at 2:27 pm

      This is the plain tomato sauce, then you add the other seasonings mentioned in the recipe. :)

      Reply
      • Susan Alexander says

        October 9, 2011 at 2:36 pm

        Wonderful as I don’t buy the jarred stuff and this recipe is so easy I wouldn’t want to take the time to make the real seasoned sauce! :)

        Reply
  121. Stacy says

    October 9, 2011 at 2:30 pm

    I have never cooked my pasta in the sauce and water. REALLY excited to try this one!!!! You are just using plain tomato sauce from cans, not like a Ragu or Prego

    Reply
    • Laura says

      October 10, 2011 at 6:34 am

      Yes, just plain tomato sauce, then I add my own herbs and spices (just the ones described in the recipe).

      Reply
  122. Susan Alexander says

    October 21, 2011 at 5:03 pm

    Ok, made this for dinner and we LOVED it. I made a few very small changes. I had underestimated how much sauce to buy and only bought one large can of sauce. So, I improvised with a can of diced tomatoes which turned out great. Next time, however, I will dial back the sauce to a medium-sized can because it was just a little too saucy after all. LOL

    I added roughly 1/2-1 tsp sucanat because I find that really brings out the flavor of tomato sauce. Next time I will add a little pepper too. I also always brown my beef, then add the onion and brown. I doubled to two cloves of garlic and browned that in with the onion.

    I also did a little thinking and realized I can brown the beef in my large cast iron pan and then pour the sauce/noodle mixture in and then I can stick the whole thing in the oven and save a pan! ;)

    Thanks for this yummy recipe! Oh and next time we’re going to try an italian sausage instead of ground beef…

    Reply
  123. katherine jenson says

    February 9, 2012 at 4:25 pm

    I am going to make this and use either quinoa or whole wheat pasta. Then freeze for lunches to take to work or a fast dinner! What a nice recipe!

    Reply
  124. Erin says

    March 16, 2012 at 3:42 pm

    This is one of my family’s favorite dishes! But I don’t bother to cook the pasta/sauce on the stove-top beforehand because I have an aversion to extra dirty dishes :) I put the uncooked pasta in the baking dish, cover it with the meat-sauce mixture and raise the oven temperature up to 375 to make up for the difference. Works great and less kitchen mess! What’s not to love?

    Reply
    • Erin says

      March 16, 2012 at 3:44 pm

      Oops! I meant 400 degrees, not 375 :)

      Reply
    • Myra says

      November 4, 2012 at 11:46 pm

      Erin, do you cover the pan while baking? Great idea! I have to try it!

      Reply
  125. sheri says

    April 24, 2012 at 12:40 pm

    I don’t do the pasta like that, but have made this for years. One thing i like to do is add some El pato sauce (mexican tomato sauce). Add to taste, it is spicy.

    Reply
  126. Kristin says

    July 22, 2012 at 3:15 pm

    Was looking for a new “spaghetti” recipe to help mix it up a little. Can’t wait to try it and let you know how much my family loved it!!!!

    Reply
  127. Angela H. says

    October 10, 2012 at 11:25 am

    How many servings does this make?

    Reply
    • Laura says

      October 11, 2012 at 8:51 am

      It serves about 10.

      Reply
  128. Angela H. says

    October 10, 2012 at 11:26 am

    I need to make this for 50 people….Please help.

    Reply
    • Laura says

      October 11, 2012 at 8:52 am

      Depending on what you’re serving with this, you might want to plan to make 4 of these. Or, I’d make five if you are serving very few sides.

      Reply
  129. Jill says

    November 7, 2012 at 4:39 pm

    It seems you use a lot of minced onions. Where do you get these in bulk and do you have a brand preference?

    Reply
    • [email protected] says

      December 14, 2012 at 11:49 am

      This link shows where Laura gets her whole foods. https://www.heavenlyhomemakers.com/whole-food-resources

      Reply
  130. Cheri says

    April 30, 2013 at 1:27 am

    Any suggestions on the adjustments to this recipe if I wanted to leave out the meat? Thanks!!

    Reply
    • [email protected] says

      June 3, 2013 at 11:15 am

      No need to adjust anything, just leave out the meat!

      Reply
  131. Mark Wood says

    July 30, 2013 at 4:49 pm

    How much does this receipt make for? 6 to 8 people?

    Reply
    • Laura says

      July 31, 2013 at 10:19 am

      Yes, 6-8 people. :)

      Reply
  132. Lila says

    October 6, 2013 at 3:07 pm

    I am fascinated by the science of 10 ounces of pasta absorbing 6 cups of liquid so I must make this just to see it done ! And the next time I spill hot water on the floor, I am going to forego the mop and throw a box of pasta down instead. :-)

    Reply
  133. Mary says

    March 5, 2014 at 2:58 pm

    I originally asked for meals for 20 people and this website came up…I click on the Italian Pasta Bake…but it looks like it is only for a new…meat is 1lb….Can you tell me how to increase ingredients for 20 people…thanks

    Reply
    • Laura says

      March 6, 2014 at 8:10 am

      I would triple this recipe for 20 people. :)

      Reply
  134. Marisa B. says

    March 17, 2014 at 3:02 pm

    How many cups is 10 oz of pasta? I have some penne in a large storage container with no packaging!!

    Reply
    • [email protected] says

      March 30, 2014 at 8:21 pm

      I think 8 oz is about 2 cups so maybe about a 2 1/4 cups???

      Reply
  135. Marisa B. says

    March 18, 2014 at 7:49 am

    Well, I was making it right away so I just eye-balled it. Four cups dry penne seemed about right. Hope that helps someone else!

    Reply
  136. Anna says

    June 17, 2019 at 10:58 pm

    How many people does a 9×13 of this serve?? We will have 22 people in our house this weekend and curious how many I would need to make up ahead of time???

    Also, can these be made up the day before then just popped into the oven when people are there so you aren’t having to cook in front of guests who are staying for the weekend?!

    Reply
    • Laura says

      June 18, 2019 at 9:22 am

      I would make three 9×13 dishes to feed 22 people. And absolutely, make them ahead of time and just bake them as needed!

      Reply
  137. anna says

    June 19, 2019 at 10:44 am

    Does this need to be the plain Tomato Sauce or can I use a marinara or pasta sauce?

    Reply
    • Laura says

      June 19, 2019 at 1:59 pm

      Either one. I use plain tomato sauce and add my own spices per the recipe. But if you have prepared sauce, just add that instead!

      Reply
  138. Anna says

    June 19, 2019 at 2:49 pm

    Thank you for your patience with me!! :) :)
    So with prepared sauce, would it be too much if I added those spices? Better to leave out or better to add also? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Laura says

      June 20, 2019 at 2:00 pm

      I’d leave them out, but it really should be fine if you go ahead and add them too! It’ll just be extra flavorful!

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


Join Our Community!

 Facebook Twitter RSS E-mail Instagram Pinterest

Popular Posts

~ Will All of the Real Moms Please Stand Up?
~ Easy! Stir-and-Pour Whole Wheat Bread
~ How to Make Gatorade
~ 31 Real Food Breakfast Ideas
~ Dear Teenage Girls...
~ When Mom Takes a Step Back
~ The Inexpensive Health Insurance We Love!
~ Let's Talk Real Food Grocery Budgets

Check out our latest posts!

  • Easy Chili Cheese Dip
  • How to Make 5 Meals with 1 Pork Roast
  • Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Sandwich Ideas
  • Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe – $1.00/person!
  • How to Beat Inflation at the Grocery Store
Home  ~  Simple Meals  ~  Club Membership  ~  Shop  ~  Privacy Policy  ~  Disclosure  ~ Contact

Copyright © 2023 · Beautiful Pro Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in