Name: Cream Cheese Pasta Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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This creamy and cheesy Cream Cheese Pasta Bake is a perfect blend of comfort and flavor. With rich cream cheese and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish will quickly become your family's new favorite.

Cream Cheese Pasta Bake

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1 cup marinara sauce

¼ cup heavy cream

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, marinara sauce, heavy cream, garlic, oregano, and basil. Stir until smooth.

Add the cooked pasta to the cream cheese mixture and stir until well-coated.

Gently fold in the diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Storage/Reheating

To store leftovers, I recommend placing the pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, I simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can! While I like to use penne or rigatoni, any short pasta will work perfectly for this recipe. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta type.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

Can I add meat to this pasta bake?

Of course! If you're looking for a meatier version, feel free to add cooked ground beef, sausage, or even grilled chicken. It adds a savory depth of flavor and makes the dish more hearty.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

This recipe is already vegetarian, but if you're looking to add more veggies, you can mix in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for an extra burst of flavor.

Can I freeze this pasta bake?

Yes! To freeze, let the pasta bake cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake it straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until heated through.

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese Pasta Bake is the perfect comforting meal to enjoy with family and friends. With its rich, creamy sauce and delicious blend of cheeses, it’s bound to be a hit every time. Plus, it's easy to make, customizable, and perfect for leftovers. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this dish is sure to bring smiles all around.

Recipe:

Cream Cheese Pasta Bake

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy and cheesy pasta bake made with cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This dish is comforting, flavorful, and easy to make for any occasion.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, marinara sauce, heavy cream, garlic, oregano, and basil. Stir until smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the cream cheese mixture and stir until well-coated.
Gently fold in the diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.