How to Make Asparagus Pasta Bake - A Step-by-Step Guide

Asparagus is a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be incorporated into a wide variety of dishes. One of our favorite ways to enjoy asparagus is in a creamy and decadent pasta bake. This Asparagus Pasta Bake recipe is a perfect way to highlight the fresh and vibrant flavors of asparagus while also indulging in a comforting and satisfying meal.

The combination of tender asparagus, al dente pasta, and a rich and creamy sauce creates a truly irresistible dish that is sure to pleas...

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Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
  • 1 (28 ounce) jar tomato sauce, divided
  • 2 cups finely shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • ⅓ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • ½ pound asparagus, trimmed
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 large red bell pepper, diced

Information

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 1 hr
  • Additional Time: 5 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr 25 mins
  • Servings: 8
  • Yield: 8 servings

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil; cook ziti at a boil until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
  • Add ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, and parsley to drained pasta. Mix and set aside.
  • Chop trimmed asparagus into 1/4-inch slices, separating stems and tips.
  • Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and saute for 5 minutes. Stir in asparagus stems; cook for another 3 minutes. Add bell pepper and cook, 2 to 3 minutes. Add asparagus tips and cook, 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Spread 1 cup tomato sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Add 1/2 of the pasta mixture and smooth into an even layer. Sprinkle 1/2 of the vegetables on top. Top with 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese. Add remaining pasta in an even layer, followed by remaining vegetables. Cover with remaining tomato sauce. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
  • Bake, uncovered, on the middle rack of the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Move to the top rack and continue to bake until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 5 minutes more. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
  • Nutrition

    456 cal.

    • Total Fat: 16g
    • Saturated Fat: 7g
    • Cholesterol: 33mg
    • Sodium: 801mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 55g
    • Dietary Fiber: 5g
    • Total Sugars: 8g
    • Protein: 23g
    • Vitamin C: 39mg
    • Calcium: 399mg
    • Iron: 4mg
    • Potassium: 652mg