Stratta
Stratta is a comforting layered baked pasta dish featuring ground meat, creamy sour cream, and melted cheeses, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, it combines savory, cheesy goodness with hearty pasta, making it a crowd-pleasing comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat in a skillet until fully cooked.
- Cook the macaroni according to the package directions until al dente.
- Drain the macaroni and add the cooked ground meat and Ragu sauce to it.
- Spread half of the meat and pasta mixture evenly in a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Cover the layer with sour cream.
- Place slices of Provolone cheese over the sour cream, then add the remaining macaroni mixture on top.
- Top the final layer with slices of Mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in a 300°F oven for 30 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, try using Italian sausage instead of ground meat. You can also substitute the macaroni with another pasta shape like penne or rigatoni. If you want a creamier texture, mix in some ricotta cheese with the sour cream. Additionally, feel free to add veggies like spinach or mushrooms to enhance the dish, which pairs beautifully with Garlic Bread.
Serving Suggestions
This Stratta makes a hearty main dish and is best served hot. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For an Italian-inspired dinner, consider serving it alongside Garlic Bread or a side of Pasta With Broccoli. A light red wine can also complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Cover with foil to keep the cheese from browning too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stratta contains roughly 500 calories, with 36g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (72% of the Daily Value), calcium (71% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1083mg per serving (47% 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 assemble the Stratta a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will ensure even cooking and melting of the cheese.
Can I freeze the Stratta?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled Stratta before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, storing it for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What can I use instead of Ragu sauce?
If you prefer homemade, you can use your favorite marinara or spaghetti sauce instead of Ragu. Alternatively, a simple mixture of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs can also work well. This can add a fresher taste to the dish while still keeping it aligned with traditional Italian recipes.
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).