Creamy Oven-Baked Pea Pasta
Craving a creamy baked pasta recipe that’s rich, comforting, and incredibly easy to make? This oven-baked pea pasta is the ultimate one-pan dinner idea for busy weeknights. No need to boil pasta—everything cooks together in one dish for a simple, no-fuss meal.
Made with dry pasta shells, sweet green peas, cream, and Parmesan cheese, this easy pasta casserole turns into a perfectly creamy, cheesy dish right in the oven. It’s a budget-friendly, family-approved recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Baked Pasta
- One-pan pasta recipe quick prep, easy cleanup
- No-boil pasta method saves time in the kitchen
- Creamy & cheesy texture ultimate comfort food
- Affordable pantry ingredients perfect for budget meals
- Vegetarian-friendly dinner option
- Kid-friendly pasta recipe mild and delicious
Ingredients for Easy Oven-Baked Pasta
- 8 oz dry medium pasta shells
- 1 ½ cups frozen green peas (no thawing needed)
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for greasing)
How to Make Creamy Oven-Baked Pea Pasta
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
2. Add the Pasta
Spread the dry pasta shells evenly in the dish—no need to cook them first.
3. Add the Peas
Scatter frozen green peas over the pasta for a fresh, slightly sweet flavor.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together:
- Broth
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
Pour evenly over the pasta mixture.
5. Bake Covered
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the liquid.
6. Finish Baking
Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the pasta is tender and the sauce is thick and creamy.
7. Rest & Serve
Let the dish sit for 5 minutes, then serve warm with extra Parmesan on top.
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and flavor
- Stir gently halfway through baking for even cooking
- Add extra broth if the pasta absorbs too much liquid
- Avoid overbaking to keep the texture creamy
Delicious Variations & Add-Ins
- Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients
- Stir in shredded chicken for a protein boost
- Try Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese flavor
- Top with breadcrumbs for a crispy finish
- Add lemon zest to brighten the dish
Serving Ideas
Pair this creamy pasta casserole with:
- Fresh green salad
- Garlic bread or crusty bread
- Light drinks like sparkling water or fresh juice
Health Benefits of Pea Pasta
- Green peas provide fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein
- Homemade meals help reduce processed food intake
- Balanced combination of carbs, fats, and protein
- Easy to adapt into a lighter or healthier pasta dish
Final Thoughts
This easy creamy oven-baked pasta is the perfect combination of convenience and comfort. With its no-boil method, simple ingredients, and rich flavor, it’s a go-to weeknight dinner recipe you’ll keep coming back to.
