Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake: A Comforting Delight

Indulge in the rich flavors of a Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake, a dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the creamy goodness of a rich tomato sauce. This comforting bake is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. With its delightful blend of textures and flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake, gather the following ingredients:

12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work best)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Cooking Tips

Before diving into the cooking process, here are a few tips to enhance your Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake:

Pasta Selection: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well. Penne and rotini are fantastic choices as they capture the creamy sauce in every bite.
Fresh vs. Canned Tomatoes: While crushed tomatoes work wonderfully, using fresh tomatoes in peak season can elevate the dish even more. Just blanch and peel them before adding.
Herbs: Fresh basil is key for flavor; however, if you can’t find it, dried basil can be used in a pinch—just reduce the quantity, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and fontina can add a delicious twist.

Preparation Method

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Stir in the dried oregano, sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta and chopped basil to the sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional fresh basil before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the tomatoes and basil.

Variations & Dietary Preferences

To cater to different dietary needs, consider these variations:

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
Vegan: Use cashew cream instead of heavy cream, nutritional yeast in place of cheese, and a vegan pasta option.
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or chickpeas for added protein and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table with loved ones and savor the moment. Don’t hesitate to make this dish your own—experiment with ingredients, play with spices, and enjoy the process of cooking.

For more cooking inspiration, try exploring related articles on food trends, or check out easy pasta recipes. And remember, the kitchen is a place for creativity, so have fun and share your culinary adventures with friends and family!

Glossary of Terms

Al Dente: Italian for “to the tooth,” referring to pasta that is cooked until firm to the bite.
Blanch: A cooking process where food is briefly immersed in boiling water, then quickly cooled to stop the cooking process.
Simmer: To cook in liquid at a low heat just below boiling.

Enjoy your Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake, and happy cooking!

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake