Description
Pesto pasta bake is a comforting, one-pan dish that marries al dente pasta with creamy ricotta, tangy mozzarella, and vibrant pesto. This delicious bake is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a rich flavor experience with minimal effort. Topped with golden cheese and juicy cherry tomatoes, it?s like a cozy hug in casserole form?sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne or fusilli pasta
- 1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375?F (190?C) and grease a large baking dish.
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 6-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with pesto, ricotta, half of the mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg