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To create a truly unforgettable Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake, the first step lies in developing a rich, flavorful sauce. Simmering your sauce is essential; it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you simmer the tomato sauce, the heat encourages the natural sugars in the tomatoes to caramelize slightly, enhancing their sweetness. This process also helps to concentrate the flavors, making your sauce more robust and delicious.

Homestyle Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake

Discover the joy of home cooking with this Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake, a delightful comfort food that everyone will love! This dish combines tender penne pasta with a rich creamy sauce, fresh basil, and vibrant tomatoes for a mouthwatering experience. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this versatile recipe is both easy to make and packed with nutrition. Elevate your mealtime comfort with this irresistible pasta bake that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

1 teaspoon sugar

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Extra basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

        Add Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with Italian herbs, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

          Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the baby spinach and fresh basil, mixing until the spinach wilts.

            Combine with Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the creamy tomato sauce, mixing until all the pasta is well coated.

              Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

                Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                  Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your homestyle creamy tomato basil pasta bake!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8