Looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that will satisfy your pasta cravings? Look no further! This Baked Pesto pastaasserole is the perfect solution. It's a delightful mix of rich pesto and tender pasta, topped with gooey cheese. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a pasta lover just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Baked Pesto Pasta Casserole

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make this delicious casserole:

  • Pasta (500g): Penne or fusilli work best
  • Fresh Basil Leaves (2 cups)
  • Garlic (2 cloves)
  • Pine Nuts (1/4 cup)
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup)
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1/2 cup)
  • Salt (1/2 tsp)
  • Black Pepper (1/4 tsp)
  • Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded)
  • Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved)
  • Cream (1/2 cup)

Preparation

Step 1. Prepare the Pesto

Making pesto from scratch is easier than you think:

  1. Blend Basil and Garlic:
  • Combine 2 cups of fresh basil leaves and 2 garlic cloves in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
  1. Add Pine Nuts and Cheese:
  • Add 1/4 cup of pine nuts and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until mixed.
  1. Incorporate Olive Oil:
  • While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is smooth.
  1. Season:
  • Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Blend briefly to combine.

Step 2. Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil Water:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  1. Cook Pasta:
  • Add 500 grams of pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3. Combine Pesto and Pasta

  1. Mix Pasta and Pesto:
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and freshly made pesto. Stir until the pasta is well-coated.
  1. Add Cherry Tomatoes:
  • Gently fold in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes.
  1. Incorporate Cream:
  • Add 1/2 cup of cream to the mixture, creating a rich, creamy texture.

Assembly

Step 1. Layer the Casserole

  1. Prepare the Dish:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
  1. Layer the Pasta:
  • Pour half of the pesto pasta mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
  1. Add Cheese:
  • Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta layer.
  1. Repeat Layers:
  • Add the remaining pesto pasta mixture on top and finish with the last cup of mozzarella cheese.

Baking

Step 1. Preheat Oven

  1. Set Temperature:
  • Ensure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2. Bake the Casserole

  1. Bake:
  • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
  1. Golden Brown:
  • Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is a golden brown.

Serving

Step 1. Serve the Casserole

  1. Portioning:
  • Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting into portions. This helps to maintain its structure.
  1. Accompaniment Suggestions:
  • Serve with a simple green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal.
  1. Garnishing Tips:
  • Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese make excellent garnishes.

Conclusion

This Baked Pesto Pasta Casserole is a versatile dish that's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a comforting meal at home. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures are sure to impress any pasta lover. We hope you enjoy making and eating this dish as much as we do!

Share your Baked Pesto Pasta Casserole experience with us on social media using #PestoPastaLove. Happy cooking!

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