As the days start to get a little chillier and we find ourselves craving warm, comforting meals, nothing quite hits the spot like a delicious pasta bake straight out of the oven. This Simple Salmon Pasta Bake recipe is not only easy to make but also packs a flavorful punch perfect for cozy nights in. The combination of flaky salmon, al dente pasta, and rich creamy sauce all baked together creates a hearty and satisfying dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Simple Salmon Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 fresh salmon fillets, skin removed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil and set aside.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until it is just al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. While the pasta is cooking, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet, flake it into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the cream to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream sauce, stirring until it’s completely melted and smooth.
7. Toss in the cooked penne pasta, chopped parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, and flaked salmon. Mix everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce and the ingredients are well combined.
8. Transfer the salmon pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
9. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for a golden crusty finish.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden brown.
This Simple Salmon Pasta Bake is a delightful twist on the classic pasta bake. The tender salmon adds a lovely richness to the dish, while the sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of tangy sweetness. The creamy Parmesan sauce ties everything together beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to become a family favorite. Serve this dish with a fresh green salad and a glass of your favorite white wine for a complete and cozy dining experience. Enjoy every flavorful bite of this easy-to-make pasta bake that will fill your home with warmth and good vibes!
