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One Pot 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake

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A rich and comforting one-pot pasta bake made with tender pasta simmered in a creamy tomato basil sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This quick and cozy dinner comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One-Pot
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces pasta of choice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
  • 3 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the diced onion until soft, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  4. Add the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta becomes tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and fresh basil until creamy and combined.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
  8. Place the pot under the broiler or bake briefly until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with extra basil and parmesan before serving.

Notes

  • Penne, rigatoni, and rotini work especially well for holding the creamy sauce.
  • Add cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef for a heartier version.
  • Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini make great vegetable additions.
  • Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.
  • Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating leftovers to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/one-pot-30-minute-creamy-tomato-basil-pasta-bake/