Recipe
Air Fryer Pasta Bake Recipe
Published: April 1, 2024
Discover a delicious and easy air fryer pasta bake recipe that's perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Try this flavorful recipe today!
This air fryer pasta bake is my go-to comfort food. It's cheesy, saucy, and so easy to whip up. Perfect for those nights when I need a hearty meal in a jiffy.
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I've stumbled onto something seriously delicious, folks. Imagine tender pasta, smothered in tangy marinara, and cheesy sizzling topping, all cooked effortlessly in an air fryer! This air fryer pasta bake is a game-changer, a tasty triumph that'll leave you craving for more. It's quick, it's easy, and trust me, it's going to be your new favorite.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Pasta Bake
- Pasta: Essential base for the dish, provides carbs and texture to hold the sauce and cheese in the bake.
- Marinara sauce: Adds rich tomato flavor and moisture to the dish, creating a saucy base for the pasta bake.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy topping that binds all the ingredients together in the bake.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor and a crispy texture when baked, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Oregano: Infuses a warm, herbaceous flavor into the dish, complementing the tomato sauce and cheese in the bake.
- Garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic, adding depth to the overall taste.
One interesting fact about this air fryer pasta bake recipe is that you can add a layer of cooked and crumbled Italian sausage to make it a heartier dish with extra flavor. It's a simple addition that can take this dish to the next level!
Essential Tools for Making This Delicious Dish
- Air fryer: Cooks the pasta bake quickly and evenly, giving it a crispy texture on top.
- Mixing bowl: Combines the cooked pasta with sauce and cheese for even distribution of flavors.
- Baking dish: Holds the pasta mixture in the air fryer and allows for easy serving after cooking.
Common Questions About Air Fryer Pasta Bake Recipe
Serves: 4 people
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked pasta with marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to an air fryer-safe dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Air fry at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Read more: Air Fryer Pizza Recipe
Nutritional value:
Per Serving in Calories: 380 kcal | Carbohydrates: 45 g | Protein: 18 g | Total Fat: 15 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Trans Fat: 0 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g | Cholesterol: 40 mg | Sodium: 680 mg | Dietary Fiber: 3 g | Sugar: 5 g | Calcium: 350 mg | Potassium: 250 mg | Iron: 2 mg | Vitamin A: 800 µg | Vitamin C: 10 mg
Can You Make Air Fryer Pasta Bake Ahead of Time?
Make Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the pasta bake as instructed but do not air fry.
- Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to cook, air fry as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Freezing Instructions
- Prepare the pasta bake but do not air fry.
- Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To cook from frozen, air fry at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, then uncover and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.
