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Pasta bakes have become a beloved staple in home cooking, celebrated for their comforting nature and versatility. These dishes offer a delightful way to combine various ingredients into one harmonious meal, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Among the many pasta bake variations, the Easy Neapolitan Cake Pasta Bake stands out, presenting a fusion of Italian flavors and textures that is both innovative and approachable.

Easy Neapolitan Cake Pasta Bake

Discover the Easy Neapolitan Cake Pasta Bake, a comforting dish that beautifully combines Italian flavors and textures in a single bake. Perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknights, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all skill levels. With key ingredients like penne pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses and vegetables, it’s a nutritious and delicious meal. Experience the joy of Italian cooking with this delightful twist on traditional pasta bakes. Enjoy creating and sharing this culinary delight with loved ones!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

2 cups marinara sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped

1 cup mushrooms, sliced

1 cup diced bell peppers (a mix of red and green)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's ready when you're finished preparing the dish.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook following package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-9 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped spinach, sliced mushrooms, and diced bell peppers. Sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and vibrant. Season with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.

        Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, dried oregano, garlic powder, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture thoroughly until it is creamy and well-blended.

          Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, sautéed vegetables, marinara sauce, and the ricotta cheese mixture. Gently stir everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated and well combined.

            Layer the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the pasta mixture across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Next, add the remaining pasta mixture, followed by the rest of the mozzarella and the remaining grated Parmesan cheese.

              Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, for an aromatic touch. Slice into squares and serve warm.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta bake in individual plates, garnished with extra basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor and visual appeal.