Hearty Tomato Basil Pasta Bake

For the Pasta Bake

• 12 oz (340 g) penne or rigatoni pasta

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes

• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

• 1 cup whole-milk ricotta

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

 
For the Topping

• ½ cup mozzarella

• ¼ cup Parmesan

• Fresh basil for garnish

 
Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it until just shy of al dente—about 1–2 minutes less than the package directions. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy while baking, since it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Tomato Basil Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes. Stir well.

Season the sauce with oregano, dried basil, chili flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until it thickens slightly. Fresh basil is stirred in at the end for maximum aroma—add the torn leaves and fold them into the sauce.

The result should be rich, thick, and beautifully fragrant.

3. Build the Pasta Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the tomato basil sauce. Add mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan. Stir gently to coat every piece of pasta with sauce and distribute the cheese evenly.

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—sometimes a little extra salt brings everything to life.

4. Assemble the Pasta Bake

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly with olive oil or cooking spray. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.

Top it with the additional mozzarella and Parmesan, creating a thick, generous cheesy layer. This will bake into a golden, bubbly crust that is absolutely irresistible.

5. Bake to Perfection

Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, lightly browned, and crisp around the edges.

If you prefer an extra golden top, place it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes—but monitor closely so it doesn’t burn.

Remove from the oven and let the pasta bake rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows it to set, making slicing and serving much easier.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and herbaceous aroma.

• Serve with a crisp green salad and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

• Pair with garlic bread or warm focaccia to complete the meal.

• A glass of red wine—like Chianti or Merlot—elevates this dish beautifully.

 
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Bake

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Since the pasta bakes further in the oven, keeping it slightly undercooked ensures the perfect bite.

2. Add Vegetables

Feel free to add spinach, sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and texture.

3. Make It Cheesy

If you love a cheesier bake, add more mozzarella inside the pasta mixture. The more cheese, the richer the dish.

4. Make Ahead-Friendly

Assemble the pasta bake, refrigerate it up to 24 hours, then bake when ready. Add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time since it starts cold.

5. Freeze for Meal Prep

This pasta bake freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, portion into containers, freeze, and reheat whenever you need a comforting meal

Final Thought

This Hearty Tomato Basil Pasta Bake is everything you crave in a comforting family-style dinner—rich, cheesy, aromatic, and unbelievably satisfying. Whether you’re hosting guests or feeding your family on a busy night, this dish delivers the warmth and flavor that everyone loves. With simple pantry ingredients and fresh basil, you can create a nostalgic, homey meal that feels luxurious yet down-to-earth.

Bon Appétit & Happy Serving!