If you’ve ever dreamed of a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen rotation. It delivers layers of luscious, creamy sauce mingled with juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil that come together under a bubbling, golden mozzarella crust. This dish is both simple and sophisticated, boasting vibrant colors and a rich taste that make it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Once you try this, your pasta game will never be the same.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe truly lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role in building the dish’s creamy texture, fresh flavors, and inviting aroma. From the tender pasta to the medley of cheeses and fresh herbs, every element is carefully chosen to achieve a perfect balance and depth of flavor.
- 12 oz penne or short pasta: The ideal pasta shape for holding onto that luscious sauce in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps sauté the garlic perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warm, aromatic depth to the sauce, elevating the overall flavor.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: The juicy bursts of sweetness and acidity brighten up the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a subtle spicy undertone.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: Provides that indulgently smooth, velvety base for the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding gooey texture and mild flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a nutty, savory punch to round out the sauce.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese: Boosts creaminess and adds a subtle tang.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Lends a fragrant, herbaceous brightness that lifts the entire dish.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella (for topping): Creates the irresistible golden crust on top after baking.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: A final touch of freshness and visual appeal.
How to Make Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cooking the pasta al dente is critical since it will continue to cook in the oven. Boil the pasta in salted water until just tender but still firm to the bite. Then drain it and set it aside while you create the creamy tomato basil sauce. Properly cooked pasta ensures a wonderful texture once baked.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Cherry Tomatoes
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until it’s beautifully fragrant — this is the foundation of the flavor. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat. Cooking for 5 to 6 minutes until the tomatoes soften releases their juices, creating a vibrant, fresh flavor base that’s key to this dish.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Turn the heat down low and stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Keep stirring until all the cheeses melt into a smooth, silky sauce. This transformation is where the recipe really shines, blending creamy richness and cheesy goodness with the sweetness of the tomatoes. The sauce will coat your pasta perfectly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Basil
Add your cooked pasta and chopped basil directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, making sure each piece of pasta is enveloped in that luscious, creamy mixture. The fresh basil brings a burst of herbal brightness that balances the rich creaminess, creating layers of complementary flavors.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Transfer the creamy pasta mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top. Pop it into the oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crust that’s hard to resist. This final step adds texture contrast — that melty, slightly crispy top paired with the silky pasta beneath is pure comfort food bliss.
How to Serve Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing finishes this dish better than a scattering of fresh basil leaves. They add vibrant green color and a refreshing aroma that wakes up your senses right before digging in. You can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or grate a pinch more Parmesan on top for that extra flavor boost, making each serving look as stunning as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta bake goes wonderfully with light, crisp sides. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and provides a fresh crunch. Alternatively, roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add contrast in both flavor and texture. For a heartier meal, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and perfect for mopping up every last bit of creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, try serving the bake in individual ramekins sprinkled with fresh basil and a little extra mozzarella for mini portions with visual appeal. If you’re hosting guests, set up a small garnish station with chopped basil, crushed red pepper, and Parmesan so everyone can personalize their dish. Presentation makes eating this dish feel like a special occasion every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it a delicious option for meal prep. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this pasta bake at a later time, freezing is a great option. Store it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. While the texture might be slightly softer after freezing, the flavor remains wonderfully intact.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly again, adding a few minutes on top to revive the delicious melted cheese crust. You can also microwave portions for a quicker option but topping with fresh mozzarella and giving it a quick broil will bring back that lovely oven-baked finish.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or other short pasta hold the sauce beautifully, feel free to use rigatoni, fusilli, or even shells. The texture will vary slightly but the creamy goodness remains consistent.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream and cheeses with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan cheeses. Keep in mind the flavor profile will adjust, but it still results in a creamy, comforting bake.
Can I add protein or vegetables to this bake?
Definitely! Adding cooked chicken, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even browned sausage gives the dish more substance and variety, making it a well-rounded meal.
How spicy is this pasta bake?
The red pepper flakes are optional and included for a mild kick. You can adjust the amount or omit them altogether based on your preference, so it’s totally customizable.
What cheese can I substitute if I don’t have mozzarella or Parmesan?
Fontina, provolone, or even a mild cheddar can work in place of mozzarella. For Parmesan, Pecorino Romano offers a similar sharpness and saltiness. Experiment to find what you love best!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe is a wonderful testament to how simple ingredients can come together for an extraordinary dish. It’s rich, comforting, and bursting with fresh flavors, making it perfect for any pasta lover’s collection. I encourage you to try this recipe soon — it’s sure to become a treasured favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil is a luscious, comforting dish featuring al dente penne pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce made from heavy cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Bursting with fresh cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil, then baked to bubbly perfection with a golden mozzarella topping, this Italian-inspired main course is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz penne or short pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella (for topping)
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and cook pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté garlic and tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the halved cherry tomatoes along with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Make the creamy sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking and stirring gently until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine pasta and basil: Add the cooked pasta and chopped fresh basil to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy tomato cheese sauce.
- Assemble for baking: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust.
- Bake the pasta: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the pasta bake from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For added protein, incorporate cooked chicken pieces, sautéed spinach, or mushrooms into the pasta mixture before baking.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter or dairy-free version.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- To make cleanup easier, grease the baking dish well or use a non-stick casserole dish.
