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Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake

Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake

This Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake is a comforting dish made with penne pasta, marinara sauce, heavy cream, and a blend of cheeses, baked to perfection for a warm and satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz (1 box) Penne or Rigatoni Pasta
  • 24 oz (1 jar) Marinara Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 3 cloves Fresh Garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes, optional
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil, chopped for garnish
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a large 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it for about two minutes less than the package directions suggest.
  3. While the pasta cooks, set a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then stir to combine. Lower the heat and whisk in the heavy cream until the sauce turns pink.
  5. Once the sauce simmers, stir in half of the mozzarella cheese and the parmesan cheese until melted.
  6. Drain your pasta and toss it into the skillet with the creamy sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.
  7. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for five minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.

Notes

Ensure to salt your pasta water generously. Do not overcook the pasta during boiling. Grate your own cheese for better melting. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.