One Pot 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake
Try this One Pot 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake recipe.
Try this One Pot 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake recipe.
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- salt + pepper
- 1 pound fettuccine (use your favorite gluten free brand i
- 1 cup [chunky basil pesto | https://www.halfbakedharves
- 1-2 ounce jars of [your favorite pasta sauce | ht
- 1/3 cup enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (oil drained)
- 8 ounces sheep's milk feta cheese (crumbled (may sub regula but the sheep's milk is creamier))
- 6 ounces fontina cheese (finely diced or shredded)
- 2 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 6 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced or more)
- fresh basil (for serving)
- tom-tom tomatoes (halved for serving, grape/cherry)
- Carbohydrate 10.6402136824589 g
- Cholesterol 174.387075936947 mg
- Fat 52.9362347018662 g
- Fiber 1.36000003814697 g
- Protein 6.03859719126591 g
- Saturated Fat 31.9302550134909 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1231g)
- Sodium 1134.96593836585 mg
- Sugar 9.2802136443119 g
- Trans Fat 4.713976601434 g
- Calories 533 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta to al dente.
- Drain the pasta and add it right back to the hot pot.
- To the pot add the butter, chunky basil pesto, pasta sauce, enchilada sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, sheep's milk feta cheese, fontina cheese, cream cheese and heavy cream.
- Season with pepper and a tiny pinch of salt.
- Using a large wooden spoon toss everything together until a creamy sauce has formed, about 3-5 minutes.
- If pot is not oven safe, transfer the pasta to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Place the mozzarella slices (or shredded mozz) on top of the pasta.
- Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, then turn the broiler on and broil for 1 to 2 minutes or until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and top with fresh basil ribbons.
- Allow to sit five minutes and then serve with fresh tom-tom tomatoes.
My Go-To Weeknight Pasta Bake: Simple, Delicious, and Ready in 30 Minutes!
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Most weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the general chaos that comes with managing a family. That's why I've become a huge fan of quick, easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This One Pot 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake has become a staple in my kitchen, a true lifesaver on those nights when time is of the essence. It's surprisingly easy to whip up, incredibly flavorful, and requires minimal cleanup – a huge bonus for any busy cook.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The creamy tomato sauce, bursting with basil and a hint of spice, perfectly coats the pasta, creating a dish that's both comforting and satisfying. The combination of different cheeses adds a delightful complexity, delivering a rich and decadent flavor profile that elevates this pasta bake beyond the ordinary. I love how versatile this dish is. Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences and what you have on hand. For example, if you don't have sheep's milk feta, regular feta works just fine, though the sheep's milk version adds a lovely creaminess. Similarly, you can experiment with different types of pasta or add other vegetables to boost the nutritional value.
What makes this recipe so special?
- One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup! This is a huge plus for me on busy weeknights.
- Incredibly fast: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Customizable: Tailor it to your taste and what you have available.
- Crowd-pleaser: The whole family loves it!
Beyond the convenience, this recipe offers a delightful culinary experience. The creamy texture is incredibly satisfying, and the combination of herbs and cheese creates a symphony of flavors in your mouth. It's the kind of dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a more special occasion. I often double the recipe to have leftovers for lunch the next day. Believe me, it's just as good the following day!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add veggies: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers would be delicious additions.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the cheese or use a vegetarian cheese alternative.
- Different pasta shapes: Experiment with penne, rotini, or even shells.
This One Pot 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake isn't just a recipe; it's a solution. It's a delicious and satisfying way to nourish your family without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a testament to the fact that even the busiest of lives can still enjoy home-cooked meals that are both healthy and flavorful. So, the next time you find yourself short on time but craving a delicious dinner, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
