15+ Pasta Casserole Recipes for Cozy Family Dinners

Pasta casserole recipes are a fantastic way to create hearty and comforting meals. These dishes are not only easy to prepare, but they also offer a variety of flavors that will please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you are looking for something simple for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, pasta casseroles can be adapted to fit your needs.

With countless variations and ingredients, you can customize your casserole to match your tastes. From cheesy blends to vegetable-packed options, there’s a pasta casserole for every occasion. These recipes bring together the convenience of make-ahead meals and the satisfaction of a warm, home-cooked dinner.

1) Classic Baked Ziti

Classic Baked Ziti is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any night. It combines pasta, savory meat, and lots of gooey cheese. You can easily make this meal for your family or to share with friends.

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need ziti pasta, lean ground beef, onion, garlic, and a tasty meatless sauce. Don’t forget mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that cheesy goodness!

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (32-ounce) jar meatless sauce
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti according to package directions; drain.
3. In a pan, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned.
4. Stir in the sauce and season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce and half of the mozzarella.
6. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

2) Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and pasta. It’s a great choice for a family dinner.

You start by cooking your penne pasta until it’s al dente. While that’s happening, you can sauté pieces of chicken in a pan until they are golden brown.

Once the chicken is ready, mix it with the pasta and Alfredo sauce. Layer it with cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for extra flavor. Bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s bubbly and golden on top.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of penne pasta
• 2 cups of cooked chicken, diced
• 1 cup of Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.
3. Sauté the diced chicken in a pan until golden brown.
4. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and Alfredo sauce in a bowl.
5. Transfer to a baking dish and layer with mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Enjoy!

3) Ground Beef Pasta Bake

Ground Beef Pasta Bake is a delicious and easy meal you can prepare for your family. It combines savory ground beef, pasta, and cheese for a comforting dinner.

Start by cooking the pasta until it’s almost done. Meanwhile, you can brown the ground beef with onion and garlic in a skillet. Add your favorite marinara sauce for extra flavor.

Once everything is mixed, layer the ingredients in a baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and bake until bubbly. This dish can be a hit at your family dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 chopped onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 15 oz marinara sauce
• 8 oz pasta (like penne or rotini)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil the pasta for 7 minutes.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef, onion, and garlic.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning.
5. Layer the cooked pasta and beef mixture in a baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20 minutes until cheese is melted. Enjoy!

4) Vegan Lasagna with Spinach

Vegan lasagna with spinach is a creamy and delicious dish that’s easy to make. You will enjoy the layers of tender pasta, flavorful spinach, and rich vegan sauce.

To start, gather your ingredients. You will need lasagna noodles, fresh spinach, tofu, nutritional yeast, garlic, and marinara sauce. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

For cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Layer the noodles with spinach and tofu ricotta. Pour marinara sauce on top and repeat the layers. Bake for about 45 minutes until bubbly.

This vegan lasagna is not just filling, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Enjoy it with a side salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• Lasagna noodles
• Fresh spinach
• Tofu
• Nutritional yeast
• Garlic
• Marinara sauce

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix tofu, nutritional yeast, and minced garlic.
4. Layer noodles, spinach, and tofu mixture in a baking dish.
5. Add marinara sauce and repeat layers.
6. Bake for 45 minutes until hot and bubbly.

5) Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a comforting dish that’s easy to make. It combines tuna, noodles, and a rich sauce, all baked together for a delicious meal.

You will need egg noodles, canned tuna, peas, and cream of mushroom soup. This recipe is quick, with prep time around 10 to 15 minutes and cooking time about 20 minutes.

Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables for extra flavor. This dish serves 4 to 6 people and is perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces egg noodles, cooked and drained
• 2 (6 ounce) cans of tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked noodles, tuna, peas, soup, and milk.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with cheese if using.
5. Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly. Enjoy!

6) Sausage and Pepper Pasta

Sausage and pepper pasta is a hearty dish that’s easy to make. You start by cooking sausage until it’s browned and then add sliced bell peppers and onions. This combo brings great flavor and color to your casserole.

Next, mix in cooked pasta of your choice. You can use penne or any pasta you like. Add marinara sauce, cheese, and seasonings to enhance the taste.

Top it off with more cheese and bake until bubbly. The result is a delicious meal that your whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cups (350g) cooked pasta
• 2 cups (480ml) marinara sauce
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
3. Add the sliced bell pepper and onion, cooking until tender.
4. In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the sausage and vegetables.
5. Stir in marinara sauce, cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.

7) White Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese

White Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines creamy cheese with tender pasta. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.

To make this dish, you will need cavatappi pasta for its unique shape that holds onto the cheese sauce well. The creamy sauce blends together white cheddar with whole milk for rich flavor.

You’ll also want to add some butter and flour to create a smooth base. Top it off with crispy breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.

Ingredients

• 1 pound cavatappi pasta
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk (plus more as needed)
• 16 ounces white cheddar cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a pot, melt the butter and whisk in the flour.
3. Slowly add the milk, stirring until smooth.
4. Mix in the white cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Combine the cheese sauce with the pasta.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

8) Mushroom Stroganoff Casserole

Mushroom Stroganoff Casserole is a warm and comforting dish. It’s perfect for family dinners and easy to make. The creamy sauce, combined with pasta and mushrooms, creates a delightful flavor.

You can make it in one pan, simplifying clean-up. With layers of pasta and vegetables, this casserole is hearty and filling. It’s also suitable for vegetarians, making it a great choice for everyone.

Ingredients

• 375g penne pasta
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 200g portobello mushrooms, sliced
• 200g Swiss brown mushrooms, halved
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 400ml vegetable broth
• 200ml coconut milk
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large oven-safe pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add the onions and garlic; sauté until soft.
5. Stir in the mushrooms and cook until browned.
6. Add the vegetable broth and coconut milk.
7. Mix in the thyme, salt, and pepper.
8. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce.
9. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

9) Baked Rigatoni with Ricotta

Baked rigatoni with ricotta is a comforting and hearty dish that’s great for family dinners. The combination of pasta, ricotta cheese, and a flavorful meat sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser.

To prepare, cook the rigatoni until it’s slightly underdone. Then, mix it with a rich meat sauce and layers of creamy ricotta.

The dish is topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a delicious finish. Bake it in the oven until bubbly and golden.

Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) box rigatoni pasta
• 1 (15 ounce) ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups meat sauce
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon parsley, dried

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a bowl, combine drained pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta.
4. Stir in eggs and dried parsley.
5. Layer the mixture in a baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for about 30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

10) Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

If you want a tasty dinner, try this Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake. It combines tender chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and pasta for a comforting meal. You can even use a rotisserie chicken to save time.

Start by mixing cooked pasta with pesto, chicken, and cheese. Add some spinach and tomatoes for extra flavor. Bake it all together until it’s hot and bubbly.

This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked pasta (like penne)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
• 1 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, chicken, pesto, tomatoes, spinach, and half the cheese.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
4. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and golden on top.

11) Spinach Artichoke Pasta

Spinach Artichoke Pasta is a comforting dish that brings together the creamy flavors of spinach and artichoke dip with pasta. It’s perfect for dinner or a cozy night in.

You can use any pasta shape you like, but medium shells or penne work well. The creamy sauce is made with cheese, garlic, and a hint of spice. This dish is not only tasty but quite easy to make.

You can even prepare it ahead of time and bake it straight from the freezer. Top with mozzarella cheese for a delicious finish.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 10 ounces fresh spinach
• 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
4. Add spinach and artichokes, cooking until spinach wilts.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, garlic mixture, ricotta, and half the mozzarella. Mix well and season.
6. Pour into a baking dish, top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Enjoy!

12) Meatball and Mozzarella Pasta

This delicious meatball and mozzarella pasta casserole is perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of tender meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese makes it a family favorite. You can use store-bought or homemade meatballs for this dish.

To make it, start with uncooked pasta, add marinara sauce, and mix in your meatballs. Layer everything in a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Ingredients

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 jar marinara sauce
• 1 pound meatballs (frozen or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large baking dish, combine uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and water.
3. Add meatballs and seasoning. Stir until mixed well.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and golden. Enjoy!

13) Four-Cheese Pasta with Crispy Topping

Four-Cheese Pasta with Crispy Topping is a comforting dish that’s full of flavor. This casserole combines rich cheeses like Fontina, Cheddar, Pecorino Romano, and Gruyère to create a creamy sauce.

The crispy topping adds a delightful crunch. It’s made from breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of cheese and seasoning, baked until golden brown. This dish looks and tastes amazing.

You can serve it with a side salad for a complete meal. It is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 grams) penne pasta
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100 grams) Fontina cheese, shredded
• 1 cup (100 grams) Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 1 cup (100 grams) breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large bowl, mix heavy cream and all cheeses.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the cheese mixture and season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
6. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

14) Butternut Squash and Sage Penne

Butternut Squash and Sage Penne is a delicious pasta casserole that brings warmth and comfort to your table. The creamy butternut squash sauce perfectly coats the penne, while sage adds a lovely aromatic flavor.

To make this dish, you’ll need fresh ingredients like cubed butternut squash and onions. When baked, the cheese melts beautifully, creating a rich topping that everyone will enjoy.

This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. Serve it hot and watch everyone ask for seconds!

Ingredients

• 4 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
• 2 cups penne pasta
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 ½ cups water
• 4 tablespoons butter

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pot, heat butter over medium heat and sauté onions until soft.
3. Add squash, sage, salt, and water. Simmer until squash is tender.
4. Blend the mixture until smooth.
5. Cook penne according to package instructions. Drain and mix with the sauce.
6. Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake for 25 minutes. Enjoy!

15) Broccoli Cheddar Shells

Broccoli Cheddar Shells are a delicious and comforting dish. This recipe combines tender pasta shells with creamy cheese and nutritious broccoli. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

To make this dish, you’ll start by cooking the pasta shells until they’re al dente. While the pasta cooks, you can steam some broccoli florets until they are bright green.

In a pot, melt butter and add flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, then add shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Combine the pasta, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a baking dish.

Top with extra cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta shells
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions.
2. Steam the broccoli florets until tender.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour.
4. Gradually add the milk and stir until thickened.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar until melted.
6. Mix the pasta, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a baking dish.
7. Top with extra cheese.
8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.