Pesto Pasta Bake

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta bake, and this Pesto Pasta Bake is no exception. With its layers of tender ziti, vibrant basil pesto, sweet peas, and gooey mozzarella, this dish comes together effortlessly and is sure to impress at any dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is your go-to for a delicious, satisfying dish. Plus, it’s an exciting way to incorporate fresh flavors into a classic comfort food. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful culinary adventure.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pesto Pasta Bake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and hands-on time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The fresh basil pesto infuses the pasta with a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
• Cheesy Goodness: Who can resist the melty mozzarella cheese on top? It’s the perfect finishing touch.
• Leftover Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.

Gather These Ingredients

The ingredients for this Pesto Pasta Bake are simple and can be found in most grocery stores. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ziti pasta (uncooked) – The perfect pasta shape for holding onto the sauce.
• 1 cup basil pesto – You can use store-bought or homemade for a fresh taste.
• 1 cup peas – Fresh or frozen, they add a nice pop of color and sweetness.
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese – Shredded, for that gooey, cheesy layer on top.

Equipment at a Glance

Before you start cooking, gather the following equipment:

• Large pot: For boiling the ziti pasta.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: To layer and bake your pasta.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the pasta and pesto.
• Spatula: To help mix and spread the ingredients evenly.
• Oven: Preheated to ensure a perfectly baked dish.

Pesto Pasta Bake: From Prep to Plate

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your Pesto Pasta Bake.

Step 1: Cook the Ziti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, basil pesto, and peas. Stir gently to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the pesto.

Step 3: Layer the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture evenly. Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese over this layer.

Step 4: Add Remaining Pasta

Top the cheese with the remaining pasta mixture, spreading it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for that delicious cheesy crust.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Budget & Availability Swaps

This Pesto Pasta Bake is not only delicious but also budget-friendly. Here are some swaps you can make to accommodate your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Pasta: You can substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni if needed.
• Pesto: If you don’t have basil pesto, try sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like parmesan or cheddar for a unique twist.
• Vegetables: Add chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Insider Tips

To ensure your Pesto Pasta Bake turns out perfectly, consider these insider tips:

• For a fresh homemade touch, try making your own basil pesto using fresh basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue cooking in the oven.
• For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
• Letting the dish cool for a few minutes before serving helps it hold its shape better.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so good!), here’s how to handle them:

Let the Pesto Pasta Bake cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help retain more of the dish’s original texture.

Ask the Chef

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Pesto Pasta Bake up to a day in advance. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Can I freeze this Pesto Pasta Bake?

Yes, you can freeze it! After assembling, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze. It can be kept for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

What can I serve with this Pesto Pasta Bake?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with grilled chicken or vegetables for a heartier meal.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely! While ziti is a fantastic choice, you can swap it for any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

Serve & Enjoy

Now that your Pesto Pasta Bake is ready, it’s time to dig in! Serve it warm, and watch your family and friends delight in every cheesy, flavorful bite. The combination of ziti, pesto, peas, and mozzarella creates a comforting and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the smiles and satisfied sighs as you share this delicious creation.

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or meal prep for the week ahead, this Pesto Pasta Bake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Happy cooking!

Pesto Pasta Bake

This Pesto Pasta Bake is a cheesy, comforting dish that's easy to make and bursting with flavor!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ziti pasta (uncooked)
• 1 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup peas
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)

Equipment

• Large pot
• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Oven

Method

 

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, basil pesto, and peas. Stir gently to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the pesto.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture evenly. Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese over this layer.
4. Top the cheese with the remaining pasta mixture, spreading it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for that delicious cheesy crust.
5. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Notes

• Try making your own basil pesto for a fresher flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue cooking in the oven.
• For extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes.
• Letting the dish cool helps it hold its shape better.