Pot Of Pasta
A comforting baked pasta dish combining creamy sour cream, savory meat sauce, and melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and gatherings with rich, hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the shell macaroni according to package directions.
- Drain the cooked macaroni.
- Mix the sour cream into the warm macaroni.
- While macaroni is cooking, brown the hamburger and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the meat mixture.
- Add salt, pepper, oregano, Ragu spaghetti sauce, and tomato sauce to the meat.
- Layer the macaroni and sour cream mixture, meat sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a large casserole or two medium casseroles, repeating until all ingredients are used.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes, covered, with the last 10 minutes uncovered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese along with the sour cream. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you don't have Ragu, any marinara sauce will work. Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Season to taste with garlic powder or Italian seasoning for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top adds a nice touch. This pot of pasta pairs beautifully with American recipes like Classic Bacon Cheeseburger for a comforting dinner night.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but add a splash of water to keep the pasta moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pot Of Pasta contains roughly 707 calories, with 46g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (122% of the Daily Value), protein (91% of the Daily Value), and iron (66% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2463mg per serving (107% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of shell macaroni?
You can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions for the pasta you choose.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers and store for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).