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Savory Baked Pasta with Creamy Cheese and Basil

Savory Baked Pasta with Creamy Cheese and Basil

Savory Baked Pasta with Creamy Cheese and Basil is the weeknight dinner you’ve been dreaming of. Picture this: a warm, bubbling dish that’s rich with cheesy goodness, layered with tender pasta, and kissed by fresh basil. It’s comfort food that not only satisfies your cravings but also comes together with minimal fuss. Perfect for busy evenings, this dish is sure to please the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Savory Baked Pasta is a delicious blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With its creamy interior and golden cheesy crust, it’s the perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity.

  • Quick to Prepare: Ready in under an hour.
  • Kid-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults.
  • Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste.
  • Make Ahead: Great for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli work great)
  • 2 cups of heavy cream
  • 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup of ricotta cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup of fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Savory Baked Pasta with Cheese

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  4. Add the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture. Stir until well combined.
  5. Fold in the cooked pasta and chopped basil, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  7. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Use fresh basil for a burst of flavor; dried basil can be used in a pinch but will alter the taste slightly.
  • Ensure your pasta is not overcooked before baking, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
  • For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Easy Variations

  • Add cooked ground beef or sausage for a heartier meal.
  • Mix in sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
  • Swap out the cheeses for your favorites—try cheddar or gouda for a different twist.

What to Serve With It

  • A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
  • Garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping.
  • Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover Savory Baked Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Savory Baked Pasta with Creamy Cheese and Basil
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield/Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 2 cups of heavy cream
  • 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup of ricotta cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup of fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  4. Add the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture. Stir until well combined.
  5. Fold in the cooked pasta and chopped basil, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  7. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes: For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

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