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Caprese penne pasta bake with tomato sauce, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil

Caprese Penne Tomato Basil Pasta Bake with Fresh Mozzarella

Caprese penne is a creamy tomato basil pasta bake with tender whole wheat penne, melted cheese, and fresh flavors. It is a comforting dish perfect for easy family dinners or casual gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 335
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 box whole wheat penne
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
  • fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, some halved and some left whole
  • 1 bunch fresh basil leaves

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions.
  2. While the pasta cooks, warm the tomato sauce in a large saucepan over low heat. Stir in the sour cream and grated parmesan once the sauce is heated.
Assembly
  1. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the warm sauce, stirring to coat. Turn off the heat, then mix in the tomatoes and several chopped basil leaves.
  2. Coat a baking dish with non-stick spray and transfer the pasta mixture into the dish. Arrange the sliced mozzarella over the top.
Baking
  1. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
  2. Finish with additional fresh basil before serving.

Notes

Add fresh basil after baking to maintain its bright flavor and finish the pasta bake with a fresh herbal note.