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
Scale
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.
