Imagine a mouthwatering pasta dish that combines the rich, tangy flavors of tomatoes, the creaminess of melted cheese, and the aromatic freshness of basil - all prepared in a single pot with minimal cleanup! This One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake is about to become your new go-to weeknight dinner miracle. Whether you're a busy parent, a working professional, or simply someone who loves delicious food without complicated cooking techniques, this recipe will revolutionize your meal preparation and leave everyone at the table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure an oven-safe large skillet or Dutch oven is ready for use.
- In the large skillet, combine the uncooked penne pasta, crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Pour 2 cups of water into the skillet, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is almost tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, mixing thoroughly to create a creamy sauce coating the pasta.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden brown edges.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to set slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves before serving.
- Serve hot, directly from the skillet, ensuring each portion gets a good mix of creamy sauce and melted cheese.
Tips
- Use an oven-safe large skillet or Dutch oven to seamlessly transition from stovetop to oven.
- Stir the pasta occasionally during the initial cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Don't fully cook the pasta on the stovetop - it should be slightly al dente before adding cream and cheese.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the tomato mixture.
- Choose high-quality, fresh mozzarella and Parmesan for the best melting and flavor.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier.
- Fresh basil is key - chop it just before garnishing to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 80mg
