Baked Tomato Pasta
There’s something truly comforting about a delicious baked pasta dish, especially one that incorporates the sweet and tangy flavors of ripe tomatoes. This Baked Tomato Pasta recipe is a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes, combining the richness of melted cheese with the freshness of juicy tomatoes to create a mouthwatering meal that your whole family will love.
Baked Tomato Pasta
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of your favorite pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes and toss to combine, making sure the pasta is well coated with the tomato mixture.
6. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix well.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
8. Top the pasta with the remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
11. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
This Baked Tomato Pasta is a fantastic choice for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and gooey melted cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own.
So, next time you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to make, give this Baked Tomato Pasta recipe a try. It’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection and will bring smiles to the faces of all who gather around your table. Enjoy!