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7 of the best pasta bakes

by Alice Palmer Brown

published on 21 April 2023

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s simple to make and sure to please the whole family, then look no further than a pasta bake. These one-dish wonders are a go-to option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something hearty and satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. They’re also perfect for cooks of all levels of competency, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner just starting out. All you need is some pasta, a few simple ingredients, and a baking dish – and you’re good to go! From classic mac and cheese to cheesy chicken alfredo, we’ve got a range of delicious recipes to suit every taste.

Roasted Aubergine, Courgette and Macaroni Bake

Roasted Aubergine, Courgette and Macaroni Bake

This aubergine and courgette-packed twist on a macaroni cheese has a clever trick up its sleeve. By using boursin cheese you get all the flavours of garlic and herbs without needing to chop the garlic or add the herbs yourself.

From the book

Baked Cannelloni

Jamie Oliver’s Baked Cannelloni

by Gennaro Contaldo

Cannelloni is the ultimate baked pasta dish, and here Gennaro adds extra flavour to the filling with plenty of salami and ricotta. This recipe uses store-bought cannelloni so there’s no need to make the pasta from scratch.

Yotam Ottolenghi’s Baked Orzo with Mozzarella and Oregano

This one-pot pasta bake from Ottolenghi combines orzo pasta with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella. The addition of thyme, lemon juice and oregano take this classic pairing to a new level.

Tray-Baked Pasta and Meatballs

Tray-Baked Pasta and Meatballs

by Luke Thomas

With tender meatballs in a rich tomato sauce layered with cheese and baked in the oven, this pasta bake is a true crowd pleaser that kids and grown ups alike will love.

Ham and Asparagus Pasta Nests (Rotolo)

Ham and Asparagus Pasta Nests (Rotolo)

If you’ve not tried making rotolo pasta (pasta nests) before, this recipe will guide you through step by step. The nests are filled with smoky ham, rich mozzarella and Parmesan to create little parcels of deliciousness.

Bacon Mac and Cheese

Bacon Mac and Cheese

by Lauren Toyota

This vegan recipe puts a plant-based spin on the classic macaroni and cheese dish. What’s more, it’s all cooked together and then tray baked with breadcrumbs to get that classic traybake crisp.

Yotam Ottolenghi’s Ultimate Traybake Ragù

Yotam Ottolenghi’s Ultimate Traybake Ragù

by Yotam Ottolenghi, Ixta Belfrage

Don’t be put off by the longer list of ingredients here. When it comes to the method, Ottolenghi’s plant based ragù couldn’t be easier and it’s well worth it too. This is a dish to satisfy both vegans based and meat-eaters alike.

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