Speedy Cherry-Tomato Baked Pasta (Print)

Creamy pasta baked with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—all in one skillet for easy, vibrant mealtime.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 10 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
02 - 4 cups water
03 - 1 tsp salt

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

04 - 2 tbsp olive oil
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 14 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
07 - 1 small red onion, finely chopped

→ Dairy

08 - 7 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded or torn
09 - 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 - 0.5 cup heavy cream

→ Fresh Herbs & Seasonings

11 - 0.5 tsp dried oregano
12 - 0.25 tsp chili flakes (optional)
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
14 - 1 handful fresh basil leaves, torn

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
02 - Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
03 - While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
04 - Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
05 - Stir in cherry tomatoes, oregano, and chili flakes if using. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes begin to soften and release juices.
06 - Pour in heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and stir to combine.
07 - Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
08 - Scatter mozzarella and half the Parmesan over the pasta. Stir gently, then top with the remaining Parmesan.
09 - Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
10 - Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses everyday pantry staples and fresh ingredients
  • Everything cooks in one skillet for easy cleanup
  • Perfect balance of creamy cheese and bright tomato flavors
  • Versatile base recipe that welcomes customization
02 -
  • This dish reheats beautifully for leftovers
  • Can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving
  • Excellent source of lycopene from the cooked tomatoes
  • Perfect for converting pasta skeptics with its comfort food appeal
03 -
  • The key to this dish's success is in the timing. Undercooking the pasta initially ensures it won't turn mushy during baking, while allowing the cherry tomatoes enough time to soften and release their juices creates that perfect sauce consistency.
  • I've found that using an oven-safe skillet with a heavy bottom provides the most even cooking, preventing hot spots that might burn the delicate sauce.
  • And don't skip that final garnish of fresh basil—adding it right before serving preserves its aromatic oils that elevate the entire dish.

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