Cheesy Pasta Al Forno

a close up image of penne pasta, sauce, and bread crumbs.

5 from 11 votes

Perfectly cooked pasta in a tangy tomato cream sauce. Topped off with more cheese and crunchy bread crumbs, this is going to become a new family favorite.

Course Main Dish

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 30

Total Time 35

Servings Servings

Calories 543kcal

Author Krystle Smith

Ingredients

1 Pound Pasta I used Penne
4 Cups Marinara Sauce
2 Cups Alfredo Sauce
½ Cup Ricotta Cheese
2 ½ Cups Mozzarella Cheese Shredded and Divided
¼ Cup Parmesan Cheese Grated
¾ Cup Seasoned Panko Bread Crumbs
2 Tablespoons Butter

Instructions

Grease a 9x13 baking dish, or line with non-stick tin foil.
Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions for al dente.
In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, alfredo sauce, ricotta, and ½ cup of mozzarella cheese. Fold in pasta.
Pour into a prepared pan. Top with remaining cheese.
In a small bowl, microwave butter for 30-60 seconds until melted. Stir in bread crumbs until coated. Sprinkle on top of cheese.
Bake for 30-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

Ingredient Notes and Shopping Tips

Pasta Shape:. Any large pasta with ridges such as ziti, rigatoni, or cavatappi would work well.

Marinara: My favorite store bought brand is Rao's.

Parmesan: Grate your own from a wedge for the best flavor.

Mozzarella Cheese: Shred your own mozzarella if you can. Pre-shredded varieties include fillers like cornstarch that won't melt as smoothly.

Tips and Tricks

Don't overcook your pasta: You want to cook the pasta al dente which means to the teeth. It should still have some bite to it, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Always salt your pasta water: I use about 1 tablespoon of salt per box of pasta.
Easy Cleanup: Line your pan with nonstick foil for easy cleanup.

Nutrition