Easy Baked Pasta

This is a really versatile recipe. I have made it a staple for vegetarians at our annual Halloween party, but you could just as easily add some sausage or ground beef to the layers for a meatier dish. You can also substitute about any short pasta for the bow ties. Bottom line, this is a great crowd pleaser, for both kids and adults, that can be totally made ahead and easily doubled or tripled for a big group. I have made the recipe both with cottage cheese or ricotta - pick the one that you like more. Get ready to kick back and enjoy a great meal with friends.

Easy Baked Pasta

Timing - about 30 minutes to prep and another 45 to bake

Ingredients
1 pound farfalle (or other short pasta)
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
16 ounces whole-milk ricotta cheese
1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 jars prepared pasta sauce

How to Make
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta, and cook, stirring occasionally, 9 minutes. Drain in a colander, and rinse under cool water until cool. Set aside.

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta with half of the mozzarella. Stir to combine. Season with a pinch of salt and a pinch of pepper.

To assemble, spread one cup of the sauce in the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Add half of the pasta in an even layer. Spread with another cup sauce, ricotta mixture, and one cup more sauce. Top with remaining pasta, and 1 1/2 cups sauce. Any remaining sauce may be reheated and served on the side or reserved for another use. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top to cover. Place baking dish on a baking sheet and transfer to oven. Bake, covered tightly with foil, until bubbly, 35 to 40 minutes. Bake (or broil) an additional five minutes, uncovered, until the cheese browns a little.


Serves 8 to 10