Quick & Easy Fusilli al Forno (Baked Fusilli with Cheese) – Italian Pasta Recipe

Introduction:

If you’re craving the cozy, cheesy goodness of a baked pasta dish but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this Quick & Easy Fusilli al Forno is for you. Fusilli’s corkscrew shape is perfect for catching every bit of luscious sauce and melty cheese, making each bite full of flavor. Combining a rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and perfectly al dente pasta, this Italian-style comfort food is quick to prep, easy to bake, and guaranteed to please a crowd. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast, this baked pasta is simple, satisfying, and delicious.

Ingredients:

For 4 Servings:

1. 12 oz (340 g) dry fusilli pasta
2. 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
3. 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
4. ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
5. ½ cup ricotta or mascarpone (optional, for extra creaminess)
6. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
7. 2 tablespoons olive oil
8. 2 cloves garlic, minced
9. Salt and pepper to taste
10. Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Optional Add-Ins:

1. Cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for a heartier version
2. Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers for extra veggies
3. Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
4. Dollops of pesto for extra flavor

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the fusilli in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large bowl, mix the marinara sauce with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked pasta and toss until well coated.

Step 3: Layer the Dish

Spread a small amount of sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Pour in half of the sauced pasta, dollop with ricotta if using, then sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat with the remaining pasta and top with the remaining cheeses.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover with foil and bake for 15–20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and enjoy hot.

Optional Variations:

• Meat Lover’s: Add cooked sausage or meatballs to the sauce before baking.
• Veggie-Packed: Stir in steamed spinach or roasted veggies for extra color and flavor.
• Extra Cheesy: Add slices of fresh mozzarella on top for a stretchier, gooier finish.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or use arrabbiata sauce for heat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick & Easy – Prepped and baked in under 45 minutes.
• Comforting & Filling – Warm, cheesy, and perfect for sharing.
• Flexible & Versatile – Works with different cheeses, sauces, or add-ins.
• Make Ahead Friendly – Assemble earlier and bake when you’re ready.
• Kid-Approved – A classic combo that will please all ages.

This Quick & Easy Fusilli al Forno is a weeknight win that feels like a cozy Italian trattoria. Every forkful is full of melty cheese, flavorful sauce, and tender pasta, an irresistible dish that brings everyone to the table.