Baked Pesto Pasta with Cheese

Baked Pesto Pasta with Cheese

Ingredients:

• 400g (14 oz) penne or rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
   • Stir in the pesto sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix Pasta and Sauce:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce, ricotta (if using), and half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
   • Toss until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce and cheese mixture.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Transfer the pesto-coated pasta into a greased baking dish.
   • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
   • Serve warm and enjoy!

This baked pesto pasta recipe is comforting, cheesy, and full of fresh basil flavor. It can be made with homemade pesto or store-bought for convenience. You can also add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for variation.

Let me know if you’d like any tweaks to the recipe or more ideas!