Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until it’s just shy of al dente (about 2 minutes less than the package instructions). Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce (if making from scratch): If you’re adding meat, heat a bit of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage (if using), breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Add the onion and garlic (if using) and sauté until soft. Pour in the marinara sauce, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. If you’re using a ready-made sauce or prefer a vegetarian option, you can skip the meat and simply heat the sauce.
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce. Add half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese, along with any other ingredients you’re using (cooked vegetables, ricotta, etc.). Mix well.
- Assemble the Dish: Grease a large baking dish with olive oil. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges start to turn golden brown.
- Serve: Let the Pasta al Forno cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Pasta al Forno is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. It’s a great way to use up leftovers or to make a comforting meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!
