Creamy tomato pasta bake
This creamy tomato pasta bake recipe is perfect for a cozy night in. It's comforting, hearty, and packed full of flavor. Plus, it's super easy to make and can feed a crowd. Here's how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the drained diced tomatoes to the skillet and stir. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined.
6. In a large baking dish, combine the cooked penne pasta and tomato cream sauce. Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
7. Top the pasta with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious and creamy tomato pasta bake!
Variations:
There are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
- Add some protein: If you want to add some protein to your pasta bake, try adding cooked chicken, ground beef, or Italian sausage.
- Add some veggies: You can add some vegetables to your pasta bake for some extra color and nutrients. Try adding chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Make it spicy: If you like some heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the tomato cream sauce.
- Use a different pasta shape: While penne pasta works great in this recipe, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Try rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti.
Conclusion:
This creamy tomato pasta bake is a satisfying and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's easy to make, customizable, and feeds a crowd. Try it for your next family dinner or potluck and watch it become a crowd favorite.