Satisfy your cravings for comforting Italian cuisine with this Easy Air Fryer Baked Pasta Recipe. Bursting with flavor and cheesy goodness, this dish offers all the comforting elements of traditional baked pasta with the convenience of the air fryer. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious and hassle-free meal that will leave everyone craving for more.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Baked Pasta:
- Choose the Right Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best for baked pasta dishes as they hold the sauce and cheese well.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality marinara sauce and cheeses for the best flavor. You can also add cooked ground beef, sausage, or vegetables to customize the dish.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Make sure the pasta mixture is spread out evenly in the baking dish to ensure even cooking and melting of the cheese.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your pasta layer, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on the pasta to prevent it from burning.
- Let it Rest: Allow the baked pasta to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together and make it easier to handle.
With this Easy Air Fryer Baked Pasta Recipe, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of baked pasta with minimal effort. Cheesy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your air fryer and ingredients, and get ready to indulge in this comforting Italian classic made simple!
Easy Airfryer Baked Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to an airfryer-safe baking dish or pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
- Place the baking dish or pan in the preheated air fryer basket.
- Air fry the pasta at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the baked pasta from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, before serving.