Cheesy Garlic Bread Pasta Bake

When comfort food meets convenience, you get the irresistible Cheesy Garlic Bread Pasta Bake. This dish combines the warm, hearty flavors of garlic bread with gooey, melty cheese and tender pasta, making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. Imagine the crunchy garlic-infused topping melting into layers of tender penne pasta, juicy diced tomatoes, shredded chicken, and a luscious blend of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses — every bite bursting with flavor and texture. It’s a crowd-pleaser with a homey feel, yet surprisingly simple to prepare.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Cheesy Garlic Bread Pasta Bake stands out thanks to its unique marriage of two beloved dishes — garlic bread and pasta bake. Instead of just layering pasta with sauce and cheese, this recipe uses a medley of cheeses to create a creamy, cheesy texture that mimics the cheesy garlic bread experience. The inclusion of shredded chicken adds protein and heartiness, making it a complete meal that’s both satisfying and comforting. The red pepper flakes provide a mild kick that balances the richness, while fresh parsley adds a bright finish.

You won’t find a heavy tomato sauce here; draining the diced tomatoes keeps the dish light and fresh rather than overly saucy. Plus, the use of ricotta cheese adds a creamy element that’s both smooth and slightly tangy, elevating the pasta bake beyond the ordinary. This dish is easy to customize, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want a flavorful, fuss-free meal.

What Goes In

• 8 oz penne pasta — the perfect pasta shape to hold sauce and cheese.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil — for sautéing garlic and adding richness.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced — infuses the dish with signature garlic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes — adds a gentle heat to balance the richness.
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained — for freshness and a touch of acidity.
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded — for protein and heartiness.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese — adds creamy texture and mild tang.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese — melts beautifully for cheesy goodness.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese — for a sharp, nutty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano — adds aromatic herb notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste — essential for seasoning.
• Fresh parsley, chopped — for garnish and freshness.

Equipment Breakdown

• Large pot — to boil the penne pasta.
• Large skillet — for sautéing garlic and combining ingredients.
• 9×13-inch baking dish — the perfect size for layering and baking the pasta bake.
• Mixing bowl — to mix cheeses and chicken.
• Wooden spoon or spatula — for stirring.
• Cheese grater — if shredding your own mozzarella and Parmesan.

Cooking Cheesy Garlic Bread Pasta Bake: The Process

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spice

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned. This step infuses the oil with garlic flavor that will permeate the entire dish.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Chicken

Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and shredded cooked chicken. Cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through and the flavors meld. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and the dried oregano.

Step 4: Combine Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan. This blend will provide creamy, melty texture and a sharp, savory flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the tomato and chicken mixture. Stir in the cheese mixture until everything is evenly combined.

Step 6: Transfer and Top

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly on top for a golden crust.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly with a light golden color.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Cheesy Garlic Bread Pasta Bake.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

• Spring: Add fresh spinach or peas for a pop of green and freshness.
• Summer: Stir in chopped roasted red peppers or fresh basil to brighten the dish.
• Fall: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for earthiness.
• Winter: Serve alongside a warm bowl of Garlic Herb Focaccia Garden Bread for extra cozy vibes.

Missteps & Fixes

• If the pasta bake turns out dry, try adding a splash of reserved pasta water or a little extra olive oil before baking to keep it moist.

• If the cheese topping browns too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil halfway through baking.

• For uneven cooking, make sure pasta is evenly coated with the tomato and cheese mixture before baking.

• If the garlic flavor is too strong, reduce the minced garlic by half or sauté it a bit longer to mellow out the sharpness.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Cheesy Garlic Bread Pasta Bake is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the full dish ahead of time and refrigerate before baking. When ready to eat, bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a sprinkle of mozzarella on top to refresh the cheesy goodness.

Cheesy Garlic Bread Pasta Bake FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the cooked chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers to keep it hearty and flavorful.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese blended until smooth works well, or you can increase the mozzarella slightly for a similar creamy texture.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While penne is ideal for holding onto the sauce and cheese, rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini also work beautifully in this bake.

Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the baked pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best results.

Don’t Miss These

• Mac And Cheese Style Pasta Bake — another creamy, cheesy pasta favorite.
• Garlic Herb Focaccia Garden Bread — perfect for serving alongside or as a sidekick to your pasta bake.

Final Bite

This Cheesy Garlic Bread Pasta Bake is a delicious, soul-satisfying dish that brings together everything you love about garlic bread and cheesy pasta in one easy-to-make meal. With its layers of tender pasta, savory chicken, fresh tomatoes, and a divine cheese blend, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this pasta bake delivers comfort, flavor, and simplicity all in one dish. Enjoy it with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted veggies and don’t forget to sprinkle that fresh parsley on top for the perfect finishing touch.

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