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Easy and cheesy hearty pasta casserole recipe

How to Make One-Pot Hearty Pasta Casserole (Easy, Cheesy & Comforting)

This recipe is one of my fav in one-pot recipe .This one-pot hearty pasta casserole is a cheesy, comforting and easy dinner recipe made in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Cuisine: Italian / American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups short pasta penne, fusilli, or macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup ground chicken or beef optional
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Build the Flavor Base
    Heat olive oil in a large, deep pan or pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until soft and slightly golden. Then add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This step creates a rich base that enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.
    Step 2: Cook the Protein
    Add ground chicken or beef to the pot and cook until fully browned. Break it into small pieces using a spoon so it mixes well with the base. This should take about 5–6 minutes. If you prefer a vegetarian option, skip this step and add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
    Step 3: Add Sauce, Liquid & Pasta
    Pour in the tomato sauce and mix it well with the cooked ingredients. Add broth and then add uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly so the pasta is fully coated and submerged in liquid.
    Step 4: Cook the Pasta
    Cover the pot and let it cook on medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the flavorful sauce and becomes tender. Check for doneness and make sure the pasta is cooked to an al dente texture.
    Step 5: Add Cheese
    Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let it sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts completely and becomes gooey.
    Step 6: Final Touch & Serving
    Turn off the heat and let the casserole rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for added freshness and color. Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Notes

Tips to Make It Healthier:
Use whole wheat pasta to increase fiber and nutrients.
Swap full-fat milk and cheese with low-fat versions to reduce calories.
Add extra vegetables like zucchini, peas, or spinach to boost vitamins and fiber.
Reduce salt or use low-sodium broth to control sodium intake.