Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake

Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with a dish that will become your new comfort food obsession. Imagine a warm, satisfying bowl of creamy pasta, infused with the sweetness of tomatoes and the depth of herbs.

Introduction to the Recipe

To get started with this recipe, let’s break down the key details you’ll need to know.

Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
• 2 cups (475ml) tomato sauce
• 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
• 1 tsp (5g) dried basil
• 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
• 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
• 1 cup (115g) grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (55g) grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (120g) sliced bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup (120g) sliced zucchini

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Add the sliced bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tomato sauce, heavy cream, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
7. Add the cooked vegetables to the pasta mixture and stir to combine.
8. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, add the pasta mixture. Top with the grated mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Chef’s Notes or Substitutions

You can customize this recipe to your taste by using different types of pasta, adding other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, or substituting the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality ingredients, especially the tomato sauce, for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta to ensure it retains some texture.
• Let the dish rest before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Storage & Reheating

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Nutrition Table

Calories	Carbs	Protein	Fat	Sugar
420 per serving	40g	20g	20g	10g

FAQ

1. Can I make Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pasta mixture and store it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it the next day.
2. How do I prevent the cheese from burning? Make sure to cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove the foil to let the cheese brown slightly.
3. Is Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake suitable for vegetarians? Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but ensure that the cheese and tomato sauce are free from animal products if you’re serving strict vegetarians.
4. Can I freeze Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake? While it’s possible to freeze the dish after baking, the quality might suffer. It’s best to freeze the pasta mixture before baking, then thaw and bake when needed.

Conclusion

With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake is sure to become a favorite in your household. Take the time to prepare this dish, and you’ll be rewarded with a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. So, go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!