Signature Recipe
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake
A comforting pasta bake with a creamy tomato basil sauce, topped with melted cheese.
Imagine the aroma of a bubbling pasta bake wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, featuring tender penne pasta enveloped in a luscious, creamy tomato basil sauce that promises to warm the heart and satisfy the soul. With each bite, you’ll experience the delightful combination of rich flavors and textures, making it a perfect centerpiece for any family meal or casual gathering.
At the heart of this recipe are a few select ingredients that shine brightly. The penne pasta serves as the perfect vessel, its ridges capturing the velvety sauce beautifully. The diced tomatoes bring a pop of freshness, while the heavy cream adds a luxurious creaminess that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. And let’s not forget the fresh basil—its fragrant leaves infuse the dish with a burst of herbal brightness that elevates the entire experience. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone reaching for seconds.
The cooking process is as delightful as the ingredients themselves. Start by boiling the pasta until it’s al dente, ensuring just the right amount of bite. As the pasta cooks, you’ll prepare the creamy sauce, combining the tomatoes and cream in a warm embrace, and then tossing in the aromatic basil. Once everything is mixed together and the flavors meld, it’s time to transfer this delicious mixture into a baking dish and top it with a generous layer of melted cheese. As it bakes in the oven, the cheese forms a golden crust, bubbling and browning to perfection, creating an irresistible topping that invites you to dig in.
This easy-to-make recipe, designed to serve 4-6 people, comes together in just 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Its simplicity does not compromise on taste, ensuring that you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With each slice served, you’ll be sharing not just a meal, but a warm and inviting experience that brings loved ones together. So grab your apron and prepare to create a dish that is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake
Ingredient list and step-by-step instructions generated for AI Food Bytes readers.
Main
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for creaminess)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (about 14.5 oz)
- 1 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded for topping)
- 1 cup parmesan cheese (grated for flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, combine the heavy cream, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook over medium heat until heated through.
- Stir in the chopped basil and cooked pasta, mixing well to combine.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
General Notes
- Serves 4-6
- A comforting pasta bake with a creamy tomato basil sauce, topped with melted cheese.