Three Cheese Baked Pasta

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 3 clove garlic
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 8 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional)

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the tomato sauce. Gently stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan.
5. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly over the pasta. Top with the remaining pasta mixture.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through.
7. If desired, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a golden-brown crust. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if using.