Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake with Crispy Prosciutto
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a hearty pasta bake. This Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake with Crispy Prosciutto is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Rich, creamy tomato sauce envelops perfectly cooked pasta, topped with crispy prosciutto that adds a savory crunch. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Bake:
- 300g pasta (penne or rigatoni works well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 400g canned diced tomatoes
- 200ml heavy cream
- 100g grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
For the Crispy Prosciutto:
- 150g prosciutto, sliced thin
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Tomatoes and Cream: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, along with their juices. Stir in the heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy tomato sauce. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese for a golden crust.
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Crispy Prosciutto: In a separate pan, cook the prosciutto over medium heat until crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and crumble the prosciutto over the pasta bake.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
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Serve: Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Tips
- Pasta Choice: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, such as penne or fusilli. Avoid overly delicate pasta like angel hair which may not stand up to baking.
- Achieving Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or ricotta cheese to the sauce.
- Vegetarian Variation: To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the prosciutto and consider adding roasted vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the pasta bake without baking it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to two days. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A simple garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables can also complement the dish beautifully. For a refreshing drink, consider serving a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir.
Further Reading
To expand your culinary repertoire, you might find these articles helpful:
- How to Make the Perfect Tomato Sauce
- Exploring Different Pasta Shapes and Their Uses
- Mastering the Art of Baking Pasta Dishes
Conclusion
This Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake with Crispy Prosciutto is not just a meal but an experience that brings warmth and joy to your kitchen. With its creamy sauce, hearty pasta, and crispy prosciutto, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So why not gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try? You might just find yourself making it again and again. Don’t forget to share your experience and variations with friends and family!
By leveling up your pasta game with this recipe, you’re on your way to creating memorable meals that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
