Description
Indulge in this delightful Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil, a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests. The creamy sauce, bursting cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil create a harmonious blend of flavors that will satisfy your pasta cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
Topping:
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta: Cook the penne pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: Sauté garlic in olive oil, then add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened. Stir in cream, Parmesan, half of mozzarella, and seasonings. Add cooked pasta and basil.
- Assemble and bake: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden.
- Serve: Let it rest before serving.
Notes
- Add cooked chicken, sausage, or mushrooms for variety.
- For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of bake
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
