How to Make a Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil in 7 Simple Steps
Are you tired of the same old pasta meals week after week? Have you ever thought that preparing a flavorful, filling dish shouldn’t take hours in the kitchen, especially on busy weeknights? If you’re craving a new twist on classic pasta, you’re in luck! Our Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and promises a delightful burst of flavor without the hassle. Let’s explore why this dish is your new weeknight savior!
Why This Recipe Matters
What sets our Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil apart is its unique combination of textures and flavors. The creamy sauce paired with the luscious cherry tomatoes creates a comforting embrace that dances on your palate. Not to mention, fresh basil infuses a fragrant, herbaceous flair that elevates the dish far above ordinary pasta. In just 7 simple steps, you can prepare a dish that’s not only a hearty vegetarian meal but also a hit with the whole family!
Ingredients List
To whip up this delectable Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Pasta: 300g penne or fusilli (substitute with whole grain or gluten-free pasta)
- Cherry Tomatoes: 250g, halved (swap with grape tomatoes for a sweeter flavor)
- Cream Cheese: 200g (Greek yogurt or ricotta can lighten it up)
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (coconut milk for a dairy-free twist)
- Fresh Basil: 1 cup, chopped (dried basil works too, but fresh is best!)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (add more for garlic lovers)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated (nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative)
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Timing
Preparation and cooking for this Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil will take around 60 minutes, with about 20 minutes dedicated to prep and 40 minutes in the oven. That’s a significant time saver—up to 30% less compared to many classic baked pasta recipes that can take over 90 minutes to prepare!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This helps ensure a consistent cooking temperature for your pasta bake.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until al dente as per package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, minced garlic, half of the parmesan, and salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth—this creamy delight will coat your pasta beautifully!
Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
Drain your pasta, then mix it with the creamy sauce, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. Make sure everything is blended well for maximum flavor!
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly. You can sprinkle the remaining parmesan on top for a delightful cheesy crust.
Step 6: Baking Time
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until golden bubble perfection appears on top. Your kitchen will fill with inviting aromas!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let it cool for five minutes. Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil for that gourmet touch. Serve warm and watch as smiles light up the dinner table!
Nutritional Information
This Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil serves about 6 and contains:
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 60g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
With its rich, creamy texture and vibrant veggie profile, this dish is a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to lighten up your Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil? Consider the following swaps:
- Pasta Alternatives: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lower-carb option.
- Cream Options: Replace heavy cream with a cashew cream, which is healthier and completely vegan.
- Cheese Alterations: Opt for low-fat cheese or go cheese-free and enhance flavor with nutritional yeast.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider pairing your pasta bake with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables adds a delightful crunch and flavor—perfect for a well-rounded family-friendly dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Pasta: Make sure to cook it al dente; it continues to cook while baking.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season every component; a bit of salt and pepper in the sauce makes a world of difference!
- Not Letting It Rest: Giving the bake a few minutes to cool allows the sauce to set, making serving easier.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to cover your baking dish tightly. You can also freeze individual portions by placing them in airtight containers—perfect for quick weekday meals when you’re short on time!
Conclusion
In just 7 simple steps, you can master the art of creating a delightful Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil. Not only is it a quick weeknight dinner option, but it also promises versatility and flavor that everyone will love! So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients and dive into a cooking adventure that will surely impress your family and friends. We’d love to hear your thoughts—why not try the recipe today and let us know how it turned out?
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape or whatever you have on hand.
2. Can I incorporate other vegetables?
Definitely! Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can add additional nutrients and flavor.
3. How long will leftovers last?
Stored properly, leftovers can last 3-4 days in the fridge or even longer in the freezer.
4. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, and you have a delicious vegan meal.
5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely, the creamy texture and delicious flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
6. What’s a gourmet touch I can add?
Consider drizzling balsamic glaze over the top before serving for an impressive and flavorful finish!
Explore more delicious recipes and tips at our blog. Happy Cooking!