Indulge in Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta Bake: A Weeknight Delight
Escape the dinnertime dilemma with this incredibly satisfying Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta Bake. Imagine the comforting aroma of simmering tomatoes, fragrant basil, and melted mozzarella filling your kitchen. This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a culinary hug, perfect for a cozy weeknight or a stress-free family gathering. This #pastabake is a true #weeknightmeal champion, ready in under an hour!
This pasta bake is a celebration of simple ingredients elevated to delicious heights. The creamy tomato sauce, bursting with the fresh taste of basil, coats each strand of pasta, creating a harmonious blend of savory and herbaceous flavors. Topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this dish offers a delightful symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. It's the ultimate in #comfortfood, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta Bake
- 340g (12 oz) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 700g (24 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 120ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
- 60g (1/4 cup) tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 120g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 30g (1/4 cup) fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 120g (1/2 cup) mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Stir in heavy cream and half the Parmesan cheese (60g). Mix well.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Stir in most of the basil, reserving some for garnish.
- Pour pasta mixture into a 23x33cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.
- Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese (60g) and mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Let cool a few minutes before serving. Garnish with reserved basil.
Expert Tips & Variations
Elevate your #creamytomato and #basilrecipe with these simple tweaks:
- Vegetable Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor. Sauté them with the onions and garlic.
- Spice it Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 550-650 |
| Protein | 25-30g |
| Carbohydrates | 70-80g |
| Fat | 20-25g |
Serving Suggestions
This delightful #italianfood is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your experience further! Serve your Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta Bake with a crisp side salad and some crusty garlic bread for a truly satisfying meal. A glass of Chianti or another dry red wine pairs perfectly with this rich and flavorful dish.
This recipe is a testament to the magic of simple, fresh ingredients. The combination of creamy tomato sauce, fragrant basil, and melted cheese creates a taste sensation that is both comforting and exciting. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine – simple, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. It's a delicious vegetarian option too!
Ready to create your own culinary masterpiece? Head over to our blog for more delicious recipes and inspiration! Share your creations with us using #FlavorTrailRecipes – we can't wait to see your versions of this amazing pasta bake!