If you’re craving comfort food that’s as easy to prepare as it is indulgent, look no further than Oven-Baked Tomato Basil Pasta in a Velvety Cream Sauce. This creamy, dreamy dish combines al dente pasta, sweet roasted tomatoes, aromatic fresh basil, and a luxurious cream sauce that binds everything together in perfect harmony. Best of all, it’s baked to golden, bubbly perfection for a meal that will satisfy the whole family.
This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy date night in. The vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil provide a hint of summer, while the cream sauce adds richness that will warm you up on chilly evenings. Plus, you’ll love how the oven does most of the work for you—just prep, bake, and enjoy!
Ingredients for Oven-Baked Tomato Basil Pasta
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 ½ cups (360 ml) tomato sauce (or marinara sauce)
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Baked Dish:
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Optional Toppings:
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tbsp olive oil for a crispy topping
- Freshly cracked black pepper
Pro Tip: Use high-quality canned tomatoes or homemade tomato sauce for the best flavor. Learn how to make your own with our Simple Tomato Sauce Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions). The pasta will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Tomato Basil Cream Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the chopped basil and simmer for another 2 minutes.
3. Assemble the Pasta
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the tomato basil cream sauce. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Evenly distribute the halved cherry tomatoes over the pasta.
4. Add the Cheesy Topping
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the pasta.
- For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle it on top of the cheese layer.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden crust, broil on high for 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the pasta from the oven and let it cool slightly for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil and a sprinkle of black pepper before serving.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.
- Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon into the dish for added flavor and heartiness.
- Vegetarian Variations: Toss in roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a colorful twist.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Freezing Instructions: Assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 35–40 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Short pasta like rigatoni, farfalle, or fusilli works best for this recipe, as they hold the sauce well.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter option, use half-and-half or evaporated milk. You can also try a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and follow the baking instructions.
4. How can I make this recipe vegan?
Use a dairy-free cream alternative, like almond or oat cream, and replace the cheeses with plant-based versions. Be sure to check the labels for meltability!
5. What side dishes go well with this pasta?
This pasta pairs perfectly with crusty garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or even roasted asparagus. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or salmon.
Closing Paragraph
Oven-Baked Tomato Basil Pasta in a Velvety Cream Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy indulgence with the bright, fresh flavors of tomatoes and basil. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, entertaining guests, or prepping a make-ahead meal, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
We’d love to hear how you customize this dish! Share your creations in the comments below or tag us on social media. And don’t forget to explore our Baking recipes for more inspiration.