Name: No Boil Pasta Bake: 7 Simple Steps to Cheesy Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 16 ounces pasta; 27 ounces marinara sauce; 27 ounces jar of cold water; 2 cups shredded Havarti, Gouda or white cheddar cheese; Cooking spray; Parsley, finely chopped, for garnish (optional)

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No Boil Pasta Bake is my go-to recipe for busy weeknights when I crave a hearty, comforting dish without the fuss. This delicious meal combines ground turkey, pasta, marinara sauce, and melty cheese, all baked together without the need to pre-boil the pasta. It’s a true Italian-inspired delight that not only saves time but also results in minimal cleanup. Let’s dive into how this simple cheesy pasta bake can transform your dinner routine!

Why You’ll Love This No Boil Pasta Bake

This no cook pasta bake is perfect for anyone who enjoys a quick and easy meal without sacrificing flavor. Here are a few reasons why this dish stands out:

Convenience: No need to boil pasta, saving you time and effort.
Flavor-packed: The combination of marinara sauce and cheese creates a rich and satisfying taste.
Customizable: You can easily swap out proteins or add vegetables for a vegetarian no boil pasta bake.
Kid-friendly: This dish is a hit with kids, making it a great easy pasta casserole for family dinners.
Meal Prep: It’s a perfect one pot no boil pasta bake for making ahead of time and reheating.
Healthy Option: Using ground turkey makes it a leaner choice compared to traditional recipes.

This recipe fits into a gluten-free diet, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it!

Ingredients for No Boil Pasta Bake

Gather these items:

1 pound ground turkey
16 ounces pasta
27 ounces marinara sauce
27 ounces jar of cold water
2 cups shredded Havarti, Gouda or white cheddar cheese
Cooking spray
Parsley, finely chopped, for garnish (optional)

How to Make No Boil Pasta Bake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Spray the bottom and sides of a large 9×13 inch baking dish generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and sauté until fully cooked through.
Step 3: In the prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, cold water, and cooked ground turkey. Stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Step 4: Cover the baking dish with a smaller piece of parchment paper, then cover tightly with aluminum foil.
Step 5: Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the dish from the oven and let it stand, still covered, for 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish with finely chopped parsley if using and serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect No Boil Pasta Bake

Keep these in mind:

This dish is great for busy weeknights.
You can omit the meat or substitute with another cooked protein.
Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
For extra flavor, consider adding spices like oregano or basil to the sauce.

Best Ways to Serve No Boil Pasta Bake

Here are some serving ideas:

Pair it with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Serve alongside garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
Top with additional shredded cheese and broil for a bubbly finish.

How to Store and Reheat No Boil Pasta Bake

To store leftovers, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It’s best to consume it within 3-4 days for optimal flavor. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This meal prep-friendly recipe makes it easy to enjoy later!

Frequently Asked Questions About No Boil Pasta Bake

What’s the secret to perfect No Boil Pasta Bake?

The key is to ensure the pasta is well submerged in the sauce and water mixture before baking. This ensures it cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors.

Can I make No Boil Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just increase the baking time if starting from cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with No Boil Pasta Bake?

Ensure you use enough liquid for the pasta to absorb as it bakes. Skipping the water can lead to undercooked pasta. Follow the recipe closely for the best results!

Variations of No Boil Pasta Bake You Can Try

There are many ways to customize this recipe:

Swap ground turkey for ground beef or chicken for a different flavor.
Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a nutritious boost in your no boil pasta bake with vegetables.
Try a creamy cheese pasta bake recipe by incorporating cream cheese or ricotta for a richer dish.
For a vegetarian no boil pasta bake, simply omit the meat and add more veggies!

No Boil Pasta Bake: 7 Simple Steps to Cheesy Perfection - NO BOIL PASTA BAKE, CHEESE RECIPE, EASY PASTA BA - additional detail

For more delicious pasta recipes, check out our Creamy Spinach Cheese Lasagna or Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. These dishes are sure to impress!

For more tips on meal prep, you can visit Eat Right for valuable information on safe food handling and storage.