Creamy pasta bakes are a comforting and delicious dish that are perfect for a cozy dinner at home. This recipe combines the flavors of cherry tomatoes and basil with a creamy sauce to create a dish that is both hearty and flavorful. The combination of the sweet tomatoes and fragrant basil is a classic pairing that is sure to please your taste buds.
Ingredients for Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
How to Make Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften.
- Stir in the heavy cream, vegetable or chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce starts to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the sauce, tossing until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.
Step 4: Bake the Pasta
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the pasta bake warm, garnished with additional basil if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweet and tangy flavor to the pasta bake. They also provide a pop of color and a juicy texture.
Basil
Fresh basil adds a fragrant and aromatic flavor to the dish. It pairs beautifully with the sweet tomatoes and creamy sauce.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor to the dish. It also helps thicken the sauce and adds richness to the overall flavor.
