Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil recipe
Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dinner that the whole family will love? This Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil is just what you need. It’s packed with rich flavors and a satisfying blend of creamy sauce and fresh ingredients.
The combination of tender penne, juicy cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella makes this dish irresistible. With minimal prep, you can pop it in the oven and take care of other things while it bakes to perfection.
Ideal for busy weeknights, this pasta bake is simple yet impressive. Pair it with a crisp salad for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Ingredients
Penne Pasta
A hearty foundation that holds the creamy sauce perfectly, offering a tender, al dente bite in every forkful.
Cherry Tomatoes
Bursting with sweetness, these juicy gems add a fresh, tangy balance to the richness of the dish.
Mozzarella Cheese
Melted to gooey perfection, it blankets the bake, delivering a comforting, stretchy layer of cheesy goodness.
Heavy Whipping Cream
The key to the sauce’s silky texture, it binds all the flavors together, adding luxurious creaminess to every bite.
Fresh Basil
This aromatic herb brightens the dish with a burst of herbal freshness, pairing beautifully with the tomatoes and cheese.
Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
This Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil is a delightful dish perfect for midweek meals. Bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, it’s a guaranteed family favorite. To elevate your cooking experience, here are some tips, serving suggestions, and frequently asked questions to guide you.
Recipe Tips
- Pasta Cooking: To achieve the ideal texture, cook the penne just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, so undercooking it slightly helps maintain the perfect bite and prevents mushiness.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A combination of mozzarella and provolone or a sprinkle of feta on top can add unique flavors. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well for that gooey, satisfying finish.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes can significantly enhance the dish’s flavor. If you can, try to source local ingredients—they add a vibrant taste that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
What to Serve with Creamy Pasta Bake
- Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to this creamy pasta bake. Its crunchy texture and savory flavor create a wonderful contrast with the rich, cheesy pasta, making each bite satisfying.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad pairs wonderfully with this dish. The crunch of romaine lettuce, the tang of Caesar dressing, and the crunch of croutons balance the creaminess of the pasta bake, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed or sautéed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, are an excellent side. Their bright colors and slight crunch offer a nutritional boost and a pop of freshness, rounding out your meal beautifully.
FAQ
- Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this pasta bake freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through. - What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the texture may be slightly less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or cashew cream. - How do I know when the pasta bake is done?
The pasta bake is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. You can check by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out hot, the dish is ready to serve!
Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
Ingredients
- 1 16 ounce package penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 6 ounce cans tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 pinch white sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 ¼ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small bunch fresh basil finely chopped
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all necessary ingredients. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook, stirring occasionally, until it reaches an al dente texture, approximately 11 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the cooking water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Incorporate the tomato sauce and tomato paste into the skillet, allowing the mixture to cook down slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Next, pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Season this mixture with a pinch of sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix in some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency, then add the cooked penne to the skillet.
- Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and the chopped basil. If necessary, add more pasta water to maintain the desired texture.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, approximately 20 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
