Description
Pasta alla Sorrentina is a classic Italian baked pasta dish featuring tender short pasta tossed in a fragrant tomato sauce with garlic, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella cheese. It combines the rustic flavors of San Marzano-style tomatoes with creamy mozzarella and Parmesan, making it a comforting and satisfying main course perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz (340g) short pasta (like gnocchi, penne, or rigatoni)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Cheeses
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce and Basil: Stir in fresh basil and remove the sauce from heat. Add the drained pasta and toss until well coated. Gently stir in cubed mozzarella, allowing the cheese to begin melting slightly into the warm pasta.
- Broil or Bake the Pasta: Preheat the broiler or oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Broil or bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted, bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Notes
- Traditionally made with gnocchi, but any short pasta like penne or rigatoni works well.
- Use high-quality fresh mozzarella and San Marzano-style crushed tomatoes for best flavor.
- Can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
