You’re about to embark on a delicious journey with the Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake, a dish that merges the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the zesty, tangy flavors of marinara. This baked pasta creation is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a gathering of friends, or simply want a delightful meal to savor during a cozy evening at home, this dish promises to be a hit.
Why We Love This Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake Recipe
What’s not to love about a dish that marries two beloved sauces? The Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake stands out for its simplicity and flavor. The combination of the creamy Alfredo and the savory marinara creates a depth of taste that is both satisfying and comforting. It’s a great way to enjoy pasta while also incorporating the goodness of tomatoes. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, which means fewer dishes to wash at the end of the night! It’s effortless to prepare, making it accessible for both experienced cooks and those who are just starting to find their way in the kitchen.
Ingredients About Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake
To whip up this delightful Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) jar alfredo sauce
- 2 cups tap water
- 1 lb fettuccine
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 6 ounces low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella, shredded
- 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
- Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley for garnish
These ingredients blend seamlessly to create a dish that is as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
How to Make Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake Directions
Making the Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to create your culinary masterpiece:
- Gather All Ingredients: Start by collecting all your ingredients. Having everything on hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). This gives it ample time to heat up while you prepare the dish.
- Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the marinara sauce and Alfredo sauce. Pour in the 2 cups of tap water and mix until well combined. This step creates a smooth, luscious sauce that will soak into the pasta beautifully.
- Prepare the Pasta: In a 9×13-inch broiler-safe baking dish, add the fettuccine. Drizzle it with the olive oil and sprinkle the Italian seasoning on top. Toss everything gently to ensure each piece is coated.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the fettuccine. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for around 50 minutes, stirring halfway through. This step ensures the pasta cooks evenly, absorbing all those delicious flavors.
- Add Cheese: After 50 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, mixing well. Then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top for that coveted golden, bubbly finish.
- Broil for Perfection: Set your oven to broil. Place the dish back in the oven and broil for about 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and beautifully browned in spots.
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the dish wonderfully.
How to Serve Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake
Serving the Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake is just as delightful as making it. Here are some tips to elevate your serving experience:
- Plate it Right: Use a large spoon to serve generous portions right from the baking dish. This keeps the pasta warm and inviting.
- Add Freshness: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only enhances the dish’s color but also adds a fresh aroma and taste.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve this pasta bake with a simple green salad and garlic bread to elevate your meal. The refreshing crunch of the salad will balance the richness of the pasta.
- Perfect Portions: This dish is perfect for sharing! If you’re hosting friends or family, consider serving it in smaller bowls with a side of grated cheese for guests to self-add.
- Keep It Warm: If you’re not serving right away, keep it covered with foil or in a low-temperature oven to maintain warmth until you’re ready to dig in.
Expert Tips: Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake
To make your Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake even better, here are some expert tips:
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, cooking it just until al dente during the initial phase ensures it doesn’t become mushy.
- Use Quality Sauces: The flavor of your Alfredo and marinara sauces makes all the difference. Opt for high-quality sauces for the best results.
- Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to sauté them briefly before adding to the pasta.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Adding a blend of cheeses such as Gouda or provolone can create a unique flavor profile.
- Don’t Skip the Broil: Broiling at the end is crucial for that perfect melted cheese finish. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.
How to Store Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake
Storing your Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake properly will ensure that it stays fresh and delicious for later enjoyment:
- Refrigerate: Allow the pasta bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: If you wish to store the dish for a longer period, consider freezing it. Make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheat Safely: To reheat, place it in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but take care to ensure the cheese doesn’t overcook.
Variation of Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake
If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some tasty variations you can try with the Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake:
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein-rich version. Simply fold in shredded rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked shrimp when mixing the pasta and sauce.
- Vegetable Delight: Incorporate various vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus for added flavor and nutrition. Roasting or sautéing them before adding will enhance their taste.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce mixture. This will add a nice spicy kick that balances the creamy and tangy elements.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the dish with fresh herbs such as basil or oregano. Stir them into the pasta right before baking for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the fettuccine with gluten-free pasta for a variation that accommodates gluten-sensitive individuals without sacrificing taste.
FAQ
What is Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake?
Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake is a delicious dish that brings together Alfredo sauce and marinara sauce, baked with fettuccine pasta and topped with melted cheese.
How long does it take to make Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake?
From start to finish, including prep and baking time, it generally takes about 1 hour and a few minutes, making it a quick and easy meal option.
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta as per your preference.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake stores well in the refrigerator and can be frozen, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat before serving.
How can I make my Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake vegetarian?
The recipe is already vegetarian-friendly with its creamy and tomato sauces. Just ensure that the sauces do not contain any animal products if you want it to be fully vegetarian.
Enjoy crafting this Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake and share it with those you love!
Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 jar 24 ounce marinara sauce
- 1 jar 15 ounce alfredo sauce
- 2 cups tap water
- 1 lb fettuccine
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheese Toppings
- 6 ounces low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella, shredded
- 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
Garnish
- Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all ingredients.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the marinara sauce and Alfredo sauce. Add 2 cups of tap water and mix until well combined.
- In a 9x13-inch broiler-safe baking dish, add the fettuccine. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle Italian seasoning. Toss to coat.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the fettuccine and toss gently.
Baking
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Remove the foil, stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Broil for about 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and browned.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!