🍝🧀 Grandma’s Baked Pasta al Forno (Cheesy, Saucy, and Comfort in Every Bite)

Description

This wasn’t just a meal – it was a Sunday tradition. Grandma’s pasta al forno was always bubbling in the oven while everyone fought over who gets the crispy corner. It’s got layers of tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and pasta that soaks up every drop of flavor. No rules, just love.

Ingredients

• 🍝 300 g (10.5 oz) short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
• 🍅 400 g (14 oz) marinara or tomato sauce
• 🧅 1 small onion, chopped
• 🧄 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 🫒 2 tbsp olive oil
• 🧀 150 g (5 oz) shredded mozzarella
• 🧀 40 g (1/3 cup) grated Parmesan
• 🧂 Salt & black pepper to taste
• 🌿 Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Preparation

1. 1️⃣ Cook 🍝 pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente. Drain.
2. 2️⃣ In a pan, heat 🫒 oil and sauté 🧅 onion and 🧄 garlic until soft.
3. 3️⃣ Add 🍅 sauce, season with 🧂 salt and pepper. Simmer 5 min.
4. 4️⃣ In a bowl, mix pasta with half the sauce and some 🧀 mozzarella.
5. 5️⃣ Pour into a greased baking dish. Add more sauce on top.
6. 6️⃣ Sprinkle with 🧀 Parmesan and remaining mozzarella.
7. 7️⃣ Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 20–25 min until golden and bubbly.
8. 8️⃣ Let it rest a few minutes. Top with 🌿 fresh herbs if using.

Total Time

🛠️ Prep: 15 min
🔥 Bake: 25 min
🕒 Total: 40 min

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