There’s something undeniably festive about a dish that combines rich flavors and heartwarming tradition. Easy Christmas Stuffed Pasta is a delightful and uncomplicated recipe that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. This dish features tender stuffed pasta, enveloped in marinara sauce and layered with creamy cheeses, making it a comforting centerpiece that everyone will love.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, which is a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. You can whip it up in less than an hour, freeing up your time for other festive activities! Furthermore, it’s budget-friendly; by using easy-to-find ingredients, you can create a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
Holiday meals can be a chore, but this Easy Christmas Stuffed Pasta is truly kid-approved and a big hit with adults too. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a festive favorite at any table.
“This dish has become a family tradition for us! It’s simple yet absolutely delicious. Everyone asks for seconds!” – A satisfied home cook.
Step-by-step overview
Making Easy Christmas Stuffed Pasta is a breeze! We’ll walk through the process step-by-step, ensuring you know what to expect before diving in. Through just a few easy stages, you’ll have a festively scrumptious centerpiece for your holiday meal.
What you’ll need
To bring this cheesy, comforting dish to life, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 oz stuffed pasta (tortellini or ravioli work beautifully)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional but recommended!)
Feel free to switch out cheese or pasta types based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Directions to follow
Creating this festive feast is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the stuffed pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Gently fold in the cooked pasta until everything is well-coated.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Pour the pasta mixture on top and spread it evenly.
- Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
How to serve Easy Christmas Stuffed Pasta
This dish not only looks festive but also pairs beautifully with various sides. Serve it with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. For a holiday touch, consider topping the pasta dish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or pomegranate seeds to add color and freshness to your table.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? No problem! Store any unused portion in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. If you want to extend the life of your dish, you can freeze it before baking! Just cover it tightly and freeze for up to two months.
Helpful cooking tips
To elevate your pasta dish even further, consider adding some sautéed vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, to the pasta mixture for extra nourishment. If you want a bit more spice, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can do wonders. Always taste your sauce and seasoning as you go to ensure the flavors are balanced just how you like!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Why not try different cheeses, such as goat cheese or feta, for a unique flavor? You could also explore various sauces—try pesto instead of marinara for an aromatic twist! If you’re looking for a healthier version, swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or whole-grain options. The possibilities are endless!
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation time is around 15-20 minutes, with total cooking time not exceeding an hour.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! Any stuffed pasta like tortellini, ravioli, or even gnocchi can be used in this recipe.
Is it safe to freeze stuffed pasta?
Yes! You can freeze it before baking for up to two months. Just ensure it’s tightly sealed and baked from frozen. It may need extra time in the oven.
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to gather your ingredients, invite family and friends, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to become a holiday favorite!
Easy Christmas Stuffed Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz stuffed pasta (tortellini or ravioli) You can use any stuffed pasta of your choice.
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Divided into two portions.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish Optional but recommended!
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the stuffed pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Gently fold in the cooked pasta until everything is well-coated.
Assembly
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Pour the pasta mixture on top and spread it evenly.
- Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
Baking
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.