There’s something truly comforting about a bubbling, cheesy pasta bake straight from the oven — and this Creamy Tomato Mozzarella Pasta Bake captures that feeling perfectly. It’s a delicious combination of al dente pasta, rich tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, and a luscious cream base that makes every bite satisfying and cozy.

This dish brings together the heartiness of Italian comfort food with the ease of a weekday casserole. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or a weekend get-together, this recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and love in every serving.

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this pasta bake because it’s everything I love about Italian comfort food — simple ingredients, bold flavors, and creamy indulgence. The blend of mozzarella, parmesan, and tomatoes creates a perfect balance between tangy, savory, and rich.

Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder — no need for fancy prep or multiple pots. I love how easily it transforms leftover pasta into a golden, cheesy masterpiece that feels restaurant-worthy but tastes like home.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This pasta bake is a must-try because it brings together the best of both worlds — creamy and cheesy decadence with a touch of fresh tomato brightness. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or romantic date nights.

It’s also endlessly customizable — add your favorite proteins or veggies, and it’s still delicious. The aroma of bubbling mozzarella and herbs filling your kitchen is reason enough to make it again and again!

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4–6
• Calories: Approximately 480 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake:

• 12 oz (340 g) penne or rigatoni pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce (or passata)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Cook the pasta until just al dente.
2. Sauté onions and garlic, then add tomatoes, cream, and seasonings to create the sauce.
3. Combine the pasta and sauce, stir in shredded mozzarella.
4. Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella and parmesan.
5. Bake until bubbly and golden, then garnish with basil and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook 1–2 minutes less than package instructions (since it will bake further). Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, then season with Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Cream

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked pasta into the skillet and stir well to coat every piece. Mix in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella so it melts slightly into the sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the creamy pasta mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan evenly on top. Add halved fresh mozzarella balls for extra gooeyness.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve your Creamy Tomato Mozzarella Pasta Bake warm with:

• A side of garlic bread or buttery breadsticks
• A crisp green salad or Caesar salad
• A glass of red wine (like Chianti or Merlot) for an elegant Italian dinner night

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook the pasta: It will continue cooking in the oven.
• Use fresh mozzarella for that stretchy, creamy texture.
• Add a protein: Grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp make this dish more filling.
• Make it vegetarian-friendly: Stick to veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
• Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end if you want a crisp golden cheese crust.

Variations

1. Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Bake: Add shredded cooked chicken to the pasta before baking.
2. Spinach & Ricotta Version: Mix in a handful of fresh spinach and dollops of ricotta for extra creaminess.
3. Spicy Kick: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all sauces are gluten-free.
5. Caprese Twist: Add halved cherry tomatoes and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Deep skillet or sauté pan
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Oven and broiler (optional for browning cheese)

FAQ

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pasta bake, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely — try provolone, fontina, or cheddar for different flavor profiles.

3. Can I make it without cream?
You can substitute half-and-half, cream cheese, or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

4. Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes work beautifully.

5. How do I make it vegan?
Use plant-based cream, dairy-free mozzarella, and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

Conclusion

The Creamy Tomato Mozzarella Pasta Bake is pure comfort in a casserole dish — rich, cheesy, and bursting with Italian flavor. It’s a fuss-free meal that’s perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or entertaining guests. With its golden crust and creamy interior, this dish will easily become a household favorite. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or as leftovers the next day, it’s an irresistible reminder of how simple ingredients can create something truly special.