Easy One Pan Baked Cheesy Basil Pasta Recipe

There’s something magical about a dish that comes together effortlessly, bubbling away in the oven while filling the kitchen with the comforting aroma of melted cheese and fresh basil. This One Pan Baked Cheesy Basil Pasta is my go-to on those evenings when I crave something indulgent yet simple—no fuss, no mountain of dishes, just pure, cozy satisfaction. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you’d rather linger at the table than slave over the stove.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients, and let’s turn them into something extraordinary:

• Pasta: 12 oz of your favorite short pasta—penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work beautifully. Their nooks and crannies hold onto all that cheesy goodness.
• Cherry tomatoes: 1 pint, halved. They burst with sweetness as they bake, adding little pockets of joy.
• Fresh basil: A generous handful, chopped. Don’t skimp—this herb brings the dish to life with its bright, peppery notes.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Because what’s pasta without garlic?
• Heavy cream: 1 cup. Rich, velvety, and the backbone of our sauce.
• Mozzarella: 1 ½ cups, shredded. For that irresistible stretch.
• Parmesan: ½ cup, grated. A salty, nutty finish that elevates everything.
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper: The essentials for building flavor.

Let’s Make It Together

This recipe is as easy as it gets, but I’ll walk you through each step to ensure perfection:

1. Prep the pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish. A 9×13-inch works wonderfully.
2. Layer the flavors: Toss the uncooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and half the basil into the dish. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and give it all a good stir so every piece is coated.
3. Pour and cover: Slowly pour the heavy cream over the pasta, then sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top. Cover tightly with foil—this helps the pasta cook evenly and absorb all that creamy goodness.
4. Bake to bubbly perfection: Pop it in the oven for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are delightfully crispy.
5. Finish with love: Scatter the remaining fresh basil over the top just before serving. The heat will release its fragrance, making the first bite unforgettable.

Tip: If your pasta seems a bit dry after baking, stir in a splash of warm milk or reserved pasta water to loosen it up. And don’t forget to let it sit for 5 minutes—it’ll thicken beautifully!

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

This baked cheesy basil pasta is wonderfully forgiving, so don’t be afraid to make it your own! Here are some ideas to customize it:

• Protein boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for extra heartiness.
• Veggie lovers: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrients.
• Cheese swaps: If you don’t have mozzarella, try provolone, fontina, or even a sprinkle of goat cheese for a tangy twist.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta—just adjust the baking time as needed.
• Herb variations: No fresh basil? Fresh parsley or a teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning works beautifully.

What to Serve With It

This dish is a star on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can turn it into a full feast:

• A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette for soaking up the cheesy goodness
• Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus
• A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep your pasta tasting fresh:

• Storage: Transfer cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm it in the microwave with a splash of milk or water to revive the creaminess. For extra crispiness, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
• Freezing: While possible, the texture may change slightly. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Yes! Use 1 teaspoon of dried basil in place of the fresh, but fresh basil really shines in this dish if you can get it.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Why is my pasta dry after baking?

If your pasta seems dry, you may have overcooked it or not used enough sauce. Next time, reserve a little extra pasta water to mix in before baking.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Of course! Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli all work well—just stick to short, sturdy shapes that hold up to baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta dish that comes together with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this baked cheesy basil pasta is sure to become a favorite. The melty cheese, fragrant basil, and tender noodles create a harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine—happy cooking!

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