Creamy SunDried Tomato Pasta Bake Recipe

Indulging in a creamy SunDried Tomato Pasta Bake is like experiencing a hug from the inside. This dish is a perfect blend of rich flavors, creamy textures, and the delightful tang of sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a comforting meal that can impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into the culinary adventure of crafting this delightful dish!

Ingredients

To prepare this delectable Creamy SunDried Tomato Pasta Bake, gather the following ingredients:

• Pasta: 12 ounces of penne or rigatoni
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1 cup, chopped (oil-packed for best flavor)
• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
• Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Spinach: 2 cups, fresh (or 1 cup frozen, thawed)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
• Salt and Pepper: to taste
• Fresh Basil: for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes.
3. Drain and Rinse: Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Mix in Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
3. Combine Cream Cheese: Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese. Stir until melted and combined with the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.
4. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce. Ensure every piece of pasta is coated with the delicious sauce.

Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Top with Mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
4. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta Bake

• Pasta Choice: Penne or rigatoni works best for holding onto the creamy sauce. Avoid thin pastas as they may become mushy.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as Gouda or fontina for a unique flavor profile.
• Vegetable Add-ins: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance the dish’s texture and nutrition.
• Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas to the mix.

Pairing Suggestions

This Creamy SunDried Tomato Pasta Bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. Additionally, a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the dish perfectly.

Exploring Further

If you’re intrigued by the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, consider trying them in various dishes, such as in salads, pizzas, or as a topping for grilled meats.

For those looking to expand their culinary skills, check out our guide on “How to Make Homemade Pasta” or explore our article on “Creative Ways to Use Cream Cheese in Cooking.”

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By crafting this Creamy SunDried Tomato Pasta Bake, not only will you enjoy a delicious meal, but you’ll also gain confidence in your cooking abilities. Dive into the world of flavors and textures that this dish offers and let your culinary creativity shine!