Effortless and delicious, the "Throw In Bake" is the ultimate one-dish wonder for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This versatile baked pasta recipe shines with pantry staples like uncooked penne or fusilli, canned diced tomatoes, and irresistible layers of gooey mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese. A simple toss of fresh spinach, rich heavy cream, and optional shredded chicken creates a hearty meal in just 15 minutes of prep time. With aromatic garlic and a touch of Italian herbs, this bubbly, golden dish emerges from the oven brimming with creamy, cheesy comfort. Perfectly paired with crusty bread or a crisp green salad, the Throw In Bake is proof that satisfying flavor doesnβt have to be complicated. This easy one-pan meal is your go-to for quick, family-friendly comfort food!
Preheat your oven to 200Β°C (400Β°F).
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large ovenproof dish, drizzle the olive oil and spread the minced garlic evenly across the bottom.
Add the cooked pasta, canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), heavy cream, and shredded chicken (if using) into the dish.
Toss in the spinach leaves, half of the mozzarella cheese, and the grated parmesan cheese. Mix everything together gently with a spoon.
Sprinkle the mixed Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper evenly over the mixture.
Top the pasta mixture with the remaining mozzarella cheese, spreading it out evenly across the surface.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let the throw-in bake sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve warm, optionally with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.
Calories |
2990 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 148.5 g | 190% | |
| Saturated Fat | 68.7 g | 344% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 464 mg | 155% | |
| Sodium | 5235 mg | 228% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 251.8 g | 92% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.8 g | 71% | |
| Total Sugars | 23.8 g | ||
| Protein | 151.5 g | 303% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 2297 mg | 177% | |
| Iron | 14.2 mg | 79% | |
| Potassium | 2269 mg | 48% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.