Leftover pasta bake is one of the most delicious and easy recipes you can make with your leftovers. Not only is it tasty, but it’s also incredibly simple to make. All you need is some cooked pasta, a few pantry staples and a few leftover ingredients. The result is a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. Here is a step-by-step guide to making the best leftover pasta bake.
Ingredients
To make your leftover pasta bake, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup cooked vegetables (optional)
- 1/4 cup cooked meat (optional)
Instructions
To make your leftover pasta bake, follow these simple steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Spread the pasta mixture into an oven-safe baking dish.
- Pour the tomato sauce over the pasta mixture, and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top.
- If desired, add cooked vegetables and/or cooked meat to the top of the pasta bake.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, and serve warm.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best leftover pasta bake:
- If you don’t have any cooked vegetables or meat on hand, you can add a few tablespoons of your favorite pasta sauce to the top of the dish before baking.
- For a creamier pasta bake, add a few tablespoons of cream or milk to the pasta mixture before baking.
- To make the dish even heartier, top it off with a layer of bread crumbs before baking.
- If you’re short on time, you can skip the baking step and just heat the pasta bake in the microwave for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of pasta to use for a leftover pasta bake?
The best type of pasta to use for a leftover pasta bake is a short, sturdy noodle such as penne or rigatoni. These types of pasta will hold up well to the sauce and other ingredients.
Can I freeze leftover pasta bake?
Yes, you can freeze leftover pasta bake. To freeze, simply allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It should keep for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat leftover pasta bake?
To reheat leftover pasta bake, simply transfer it to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as crispy as it was when it was freshly baked.
Can I add other ingredients to the leftover pasta bake?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to your leftover pasta bake. Try adding cooked vegetables, cooked meat, or even a few tablespoons of your favorite pasta sauce. You can also top the dish off with a layer of bread crumbs for added crunch.
Is leftover pasta bake a healthy dish?
Leftover pasta bake can be a healthy dish depending on the ingredients you use. Be sure to use whole wheat pasta and opt for lean proteins and fresh vegetables for the best results.
