Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that brings together the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce and the robust flavors of marinara. It’s an easy-to-follow recipe that results in a comforting, hearty meal perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or an easy weeknight dinner. This pasta bake is sure to tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your cravings in no time.
Why We Love This Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake Recipe
There are countless reasons to love Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake. First and foremost, it combines two popular pasta sauces, creating a flavorful fusion that works beautifully with fettuccine. Not only is it rich and satisfying, but it also provides a canvas for variation, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients and toppings. This dish offers ease of preparation; with minimal prep time and just one pan, clean-up is a breeze. You can also prepare it in advance, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether served as a main course or a side, this pasta bake caters to kids and adults alike.
Ingredients about Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake
- 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
How to Make Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake Directions
To kick off your culinary adventure with this Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake, start by gathering all the ingredients in one spot for a seamless cooking experience. This ensures you have everything you need right at your fingertips.
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). This ensures that your pasta bakes evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara and Alfredo sauces. This mixture is the base of your dish and will impart a wonderful flavor. Add the tap water to the bowl and whisk it gently until the sauces are well blended and smooth.
- Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and add your uncooked fettuccine. Drizzle the pasta with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the top. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly.
- Now, pour the sauce mixture over your prepared fettuccine, ensuring all the noodles are submerged. This will help the pasta to absorb the rich flavors while it bakes.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will trap steam, allowing the pasta to cook evenly and remain tender. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Once the 50 minutes have passed, take your dish out of the oven. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. These will add a delightful creaminess to your dish.
- After combining the cheeses with the pasta, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top. Return the dish to the oven and broil for approximately 4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and has turned a beautiful golden brown.
- To make your dish visually appealing and add a touch of freshness, garnish it with chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley before serving.
How to Serve Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake
Serving Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake is a delightful experience. Once it has cooled slightly, slice the pasta bake into generous portions. You can plate it individually for an elegant touch or serve it family-style from the baking dish. Pair it with a simple side salad for a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of the dish. A loaf of crusty bread on the side or garlic bread can enhance the meal by allowing you to soak up the irresistible sauces. Feel free to sprinkle some more fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor before presenting it to your guests.
Expert Tips: Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake
To elevate your Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake, consider these expert tips. First, don’t skimp on combining the sauces; a balanced mix between marinara and Alfredo is key to achieving that echoed richness throughout the dish. If you prefer more depth in flavor, add cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, or even olives to infuse the dish with varying textures and tastes. For a personal touch, adjust the Italian seasoning to your liking, introducing herbs like basil or oregano.
Also, ensure not to overcook the pasta before baking. Since the fettuccine cooks in the oven, slightly undercooking it before placing it in the dish can help maintain its ideal texture. If you wish to keep the dish warm for serving later, reduce the oven temperature to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C) after baking. Cover it for warmth while guests arrive.
How to Store Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake
Leftovers from Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake can be stored conveniently for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. When properly stored in the refrigerator, this pasta bake can last for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Allow the pasta to cool before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Variation of Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake
There are plenty of ways to add variety to Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake. If you’re looking for a meat option, shredded rotisserie chicken or ground turkey can be great additions, adding protein and a satisfying heartiness to the dish. For a vegetarian twist, try incorporating assorted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, which can contribute vibrant colors and increased nutrition.
Additionally, consider changing the cheese blends. Use a combination of cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile or try a blend of Italian cheeses to enhance its authenticity. For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce mixture to elevate the dish and add spice. You can also substitute fettuccine with penne or rotini for a different texture and presentation.
FAQ
Can I make Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta bake in advance. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake as instructed.
What other cheeses can I use in this recipe?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar, gouda, and even a mix of Italian cheeses can add delicious flavors.
Can I add protein to the Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken, ground beef, or even sautéed shrimp can enhance the dish’s heartiness.
How do I ensure the pasta is cooked perfectly?
It’s best to slightly undercook the pasta before baking. It will absorb moisture and cook through perfectly in the oven.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! You can freeze the pasta bake by letting it cool, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and storing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Alfredo Marinara Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 jar 24 ounce jar marinara sauce
- 1 jar 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
- to taste Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all the ingredients in one spot.
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Mixing Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara and Alfredo sauces.
- Add the tap water to the bowl and whisk gently until well blended.
Preparing Pasta
- Add uncooked fettuccine to a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Toss to coat.
Baking
- Pour the sauce mixture over the fettuccine, ensuring all noodles are submerged.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for about 50 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- After 50 minutes, stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
- Return to the oven and broil for approximately 4 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden brown.
Serving
- Once cooled slightly, slice into generous portions and serve.
- Garnish with chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley before serving.
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