Baked Noodles
# Creamy Baked Noodles – The Best Family Favorite Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy dish bubbling away in the oven, and that’s exactly what you get with these **Baked Noodles**. Picture a chilly evening with scents of marinara and melting cheese wafting through your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family get-togethers, or whenever you just need a big, cozy hug in the form of food.
Each bite reveals perfectly cooked egg noodles enveloped in a creamy ricotta mixture, topped with a blanket of gooey mozzarella. The aromas hit you the moment you pull it from the oven—let’s just say, no one will be left waiting for seconds!
## A Touch of History
Baked noodles have roots in various cuisines, with each culture putting its spin on this beloved comfort food. While lasagna often steals the spotlight in Italian-inspired baked pasta dishes, many families enjoy versatile variations like baked noodles. It’s simple, it’s filling, and everyone loves a good cheesy dish. The combination of ricotta and mozzarella creates a creamy-rich texture that’s hard to resist. What makes this recipe truly special is the addition of fresh basil, which gives a burst of color and a fresh finish that balances the richness.
## Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
*Helpful notes: Make sure your cheeses are at room temperature for easier mixing. For the basil, finely chop it for the best distribution of flavor throughout the dish.*
## Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until **al dente**, then drain.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, marinara sauce, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until it's creamy and well combined.
4. Add the **cooked noodles** into the cheese mixture; stir until everything is well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the **remaining mozzarella cheese** over the top for that drool-worthy finish.
6. Cover with foil and bake for **25 minutes**.
7. Remove the foil, and bake for an additional **15 minutes** or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps with the layer of deliciousness that you’re about to enjoy!
*Visual Tip: When the cheese is golden and starts to bubble, you’ll know it’s time to bring it to the table!*
## Pro Tips & Common Mistakes
- To enhance the flavor, add a sprinkle of Italian herbs or some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Watch your baking time; too long in the oven can dry it out. Look for golden brown edges as your cue.
- If you have leftovers, which is rare, store them in the fridge for a quick meal later.
- You can prep everything ahead of time and bake it just before serving for stress-free entertaining.
## Variations & Substitutions
- **Vegan:** Use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella made from nuts or tofu.
- **Gluten-free:** Swap out egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta option.
- **Low-carb:** Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower.
- **Kid-friendly:** Add in some cooked ground beef or turkey for extra protein.
## Serving Suggestions
Baked noodles pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad, some crunchy garlic bread, or sautéed veggies. Don’t forget a glass of your favorite red wine to complete the cozy meal ambiance! For a special touch, sprinkle extra chopped basil on top before serving to elevate that fresh aroma.
## Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- **Fridge:** Baked noodles can last for up to **3-5 days** in an airtight container.
- **Freezing:** Freeze single portions in freezer-safe containers for up to **3 months**. Just defrost them in the fridge before reheating.
- **Reheating:** For best results, reheat in the oven to retain the texture—cover with foil to avoid excessive browning.
- **Meal-prep:** Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and store in the fridge before baking for easy weeknight meals.
## Nutrition & Health Info
While a typical serving of baked noodles can vary but generally contains around **400-500 calories** depending on the portion size. For a lighter version, consider using part-skim cheese or using less cheese altogether. Balancing with a side salad or veggies will create a wholesome meal.
## FAQ Section
- **Can I prepare Baked Noodles ahead of time?** Yes! Just assemble, cover, and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
- **How do I thicken/thin the sauce?** For a thicker sauce, remove excess liquid during cooking. To thin it out, add a splash of water or broth.
- **Ingredient substitutions?** Absolutely! Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or goat cheese for different flavors.
- **Can I double or halve the recipe?** Yes! Adjust ingredient quantities to fit your family's needs.
- **Best cookware to use?** A 9x13-inch baking dish works perfectly.
- **Can I make it dairy-free or meat-free?** Sure! Vegan cheese works great, and you can skip meat for a delightful vegetarian meal.
- **What sides go well with it?** Crisp salads and garlic bread are excellent companions!
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## Conclusion
This **Baked Noodles** recipe brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table, creating memories one cheesy bite at a time. Whether you're entertaining guests or treating your family to a special meal, this dish never disappoints. Give it a try! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so drop a comment, share your thoughts, and don't forget to rate the recipe. Happy cooking!
Baked Noodles
A comforting baked noodle dish featuring creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, marinara sauce, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Add the cooked noodles into the cheese mixture; stir until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
Baking
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For a kick, add Italian herbs or crushed red pepper flakes. Bake time is crucial—look for golden brown edges as a cue. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated.
