Baked Italian Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (about 8 ounces)
1½ cups bottled zesty Italian dressing
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup water (optional, only if pasta looks too dry halfway through baking)
Nonstick cooking spray or a little oil for greasing the pan
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
Spread the uncooked macaroni evenly in the baking dish.
Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta, making sure all the macaroni is coated.
Sprinkle 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese over the pasta.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Carefully remove the foil and check the pasta. If it looks too dry, add up to ½ cup water and stir gently.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese on top.
Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestion
Serve warm with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a simple and satisfying meal. The tangy Italian dressing adds a unique flavor that makes this baked pasta dish extra delicious.
