Creamy and delicious pasta bake with fresh tomatoes

5 stars
4.50 (17)
Creamy and delicious pasta bake with fresh tomatoes
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
65mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on September 17, 2023

This easy vegetarian pasta bake with tomatoes and cream sauce is a perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. The creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully, while the fresh tomatoes add a burst of flavor. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste. Give it a try tonight!

Ingredients

  • 8 oz. penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
  4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, or until they start to soften and release their juices.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
  7. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Interesting Facts

  • Pasta bakes are a popular comfort food in many countries and can be made with various ingredients.
  • Cherry tomatoes are a great source of vitamins A and C.
  • The combination of cream and cheese in this recipe creates a rich and creamy texture that is incredibly satisfying.