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- Pasta and Cream Elements - 300g penne pasta - 200ml heavy cream - Aromatics and Herbs - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes, including juice - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - Cheese Varieties and Garnishes - 150g mozzarella cheese, shredded - 50g parmesan cheese, grated - Fresh basil leaves for garnishing - Additional Vegetables You can add sweet bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. These veggies boost nutrients and flavor. - Protein Add-Ins Consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or even beans. They make the dish heartier. - Alternative Cheeses Use ricotta or gouda for a unique twist. These cheeses melt well and add creaminess. This dish is all about comfort. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a rich, creamy experience. You can use the Full Recipe to guide you through the cooking steps. Getting creative with the ingredients makes it even more fun! Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water is bubbling, add 300g of penne pasta. Cook it until it's al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard. Follow the package instructions for timing. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside in a large mixing bowl. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add one medium onion, finely diced. Cook the onion for about 5 minutes until it turns soft and translucent. Stir it occasionally so it doesn't burn. Next, add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook it for one more minute until you smell its great aroma. Now, pour in one can of diced tomatoes, including the juice. Add 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano. Season the mix with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, stirring now and then. This step helps the flavors blend nicely. Lower the heat and stir in 200ml of heavy cream. Mix it well until the sauce becomes smooth and warm. This cream adds a rich, velvety texture to our sauce. With the sauce ready, combine it with the cooked penne pasta in the large mixing bowl. Stir everything together so each piece of pasta gets coated with that creamy tomato sauce. Transfer this delicious mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly to help it bake well. Sprinkle 150g of shredded mozzarella cheese and 50g of grated parmesan cheese on top. Now, your pasta bake is ready for the oven! Bake it in your preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes. Look for melted and golden cheese on top. For the full recipe, check the main list of ingredients and steps. Enjoy this cozy and comforting dish! To make sure your cheese melts evenly, use fresh mozzarella. Shredded cheese melts better than blocks. Spread it out over the pasta. This way, every bite is cheesy. Avoid overcooking the pasta by cooking it just until al dente. This means it should still have a little bite. The pasta will continue to cook when you bake it. So, undercook it slightly before mixing with the sauce. Incorporate the cream smoothly by adding it slowly to the sauce. Stir gently as you pour. This helps create a rich, creamy base without lumps. Balance the seasonings well. Taste the sauce as you go. You may need a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper. This makes your dish flavorful and satisfying. Pair the creamy tomato pasta bake with garlic bread. The crunch and flavor of the bread will complement the dish nicely. A simple salad with a light vinaigrette also works great. For presentation, serve the pasta bake in individual bowls. Garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves. This adds color and freshness to your meal. You can find the Full Recipe above for more details. {{image_4}} Gluten-Free Options You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Just swap the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options that hold up well in baking. Look for pasta made from rice, corn, or lentils. Cook it just until al dente, as gluten-free pasta may get mushy faster. Vegan Substitutes For a vegan twist, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Both options add richness without dairy. Use vegan cheese instead of mozzarella and parmesan. Nutritional yeast is a great way to add a cheesy flavor. Don't forget to check the pasta for egg, as some brands use it. Spicy Versions with Red Pepper Flakes If you like heat, add red pepper flakes to your sauce. Start with a pinch and adjust to your taste. This addition brings a nice kick and balances the creaminess. Mix it in during the simmering step for the best flavor. Adding Pesto or Spinach Pesto is a great way to add depth and herbiness. Stir in a few tablespoons before mixing with the pasta. Fresh spinach is another tasty option. Fold in a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach right before baking. It wilts beautifully and boosts nutrition. These variations give you plenty of ways to enjoy your creamy tomato pasta bake. Whether you're gluten-free, vegan, or just want to spice things up, you can always find a way to make it your own! For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions provided earlier. To keep your creamy tomato pasta bake fresh, let it cool first. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. This keeps the dish moist and tasty. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. To check freshness, look for any off smells or changes in texture. If it looks good, it should be safe to eat. The best way to reheat your pasta bake is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pasta bake in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep the creaminess intact. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot. To avoid dryness, you can add a splash of cream or milk before reheating. This helps bring back the creamy texture. Stir it gently before serving, and enjoy your cozy dish again! Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can swap penne for other pasta types. Try fusilli, rotini, or even macaroni. Just ensure to cook it until it’s al dente. This keeps the pasta from becoming too mushy when baked. What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk. For a vegan choice, try coconut cream or cashew cream. These options will still give you a rich taste. How do I know when it's fully cooked? Your creamy tomato pasta bake is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly. Look for a golden top that is slightly crispy. A toothpick should come out clean when poked in the center. Can this dish be made ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this dish up to a day before. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, add about 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time. What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese? You can use provolone or gouda for a different cheese flavor. If you like a stronger taste, try using fontina or ricotta. These cheeses melt well and add great texture. How do I enhance the tomato flavor? To boost the tomato flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a spoonful of sugar. You can also mix in some roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth. These small changes make a big difference in taste. For the full recipe, check the complete guide on making this comforting dish. This blog post covered essential ingredients for a creamy tomato pasta dish. I outlined steps for preparing, baking, and serving the meal. We explored tips to perfect flavors and textures, including dietary adaptations and flavorful variations. Remember, customizing your dish can elevate it further. Try adding your favorite protein or spices. Store leftovers well for fresh meals later. With these tips, you’re ready to impress with your creamy pasta. Enjoy your cooking journey and make it your own.

Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake

Get ready to indulge in a Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake that delights the taste buds! This easy recipe combines penne pasta, savory tomatoes, and rich cream, topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Discover step-by-step instructions to create this mouthwatering bake in just 45 minutes. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your meal tonight!
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Ingredients
  

300g penne pasta

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (400g) diced tomatoes, including juice

200ml heavy cream

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

150g mozzarella cheese, shredded

50g parmesan cheese, grated

Fresh basil leaves for garnishing

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures it's hot and ready when your pasta bake is assembled.

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until it's al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside in a large mixing bowl.

      While the pasta cooks, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

        Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.

          Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, followed by the dried basil and oregano. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring this to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

            Reduce the heat to low and carefully stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce is smooth and warmed through, enhancing that creamy texture.

              Combine the cooked penne pasta with the creamy tomato sauce in the large mixing bowl. Stir everything together, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

                Transfer the luscious pasta mixture into a generously greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly for even baking.

                  Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta.

                    Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden on top.

                      Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish generously with fresh basil leaves for that pop of color and flavor.

                        Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

                          - Presentation Tips: Serve the creamy tomato pasta bake hot straight from the oven in individual bowls, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch. A side of garlic bread complements this dish beautifully.