Quick baked pasta: gratin in 20 minutes

Ingredients (2-3 servings)

• 250 g short pasta (penne or rigatoni)
• 300 ml tomato passata
• 150 g mozzarella, well drained
• 50 g grated cheese
• 1 tablespoon oil, salt, basil

Quick method

1. Cook pasta al dente (2 minutes less than package time).
2. Toss with passata, oil, salt, and basil.
3. Add mozzarella cubes and half the grated cheese.
4. Transfer to a baking dish and cover with the remaining cheese.
5. Bake at 220 C for 10-12 minutes until golden.

Fast variations

• Add grilled vegetables for a lighter version.
• Use pesto instead of passata for a different flavor.

Why this recipe works

The pasta is undercooked so it finishes in the oven and stays firm.

A hot oven gives a quick gratin without drying the inside.

Ingredient swaps

You can use any short pasta. For a lighter dish, reduce mozzarella and add more passata.

Grated Parmesan or Pecorino both work well.

Timing and organization

While the pasta boils, you can prepare the dish. It is a quick assembly.

Texture tricks

Drain mozzarella well to avoid watery pasta. Cut into small cubes.

Common mistakes

• Overcooking the pasta before baking.
• Using wet mozzarella straight from the package.

Light version

Use less cheese and add zucchini or spinach.

My moment for this recipe

I make it when I want baked pasta but have no time for a long oven dish.

My tip

For me, preheat the baking dish in the oven for 2 minutes before adding the pasta.

What I avoid

I avoid too much sauce, which keeps the top from crisping.

How I serve it

For me, serve hot with a green salad or grilled vegetables.

Quick FAQ

• Can I prep ahead? Yes, assemble and bake right before serving.
• Which pasta is best? Penne, rigatoni, or tortiglioni.

Storage and reuse

It keeps 2 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

The detail that makes it work

My note on Quick baked pasta: a simple final check makes the recipe feel more precise. With 25 minutes with Medium effort, it is a recipe I can repeat easily. To keep the budget (€€), I balance with seasonal vegetables and one main protein.