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Baked Tomato Pasta

This Cheesy Baked Tomato Pasta is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish made with a simple homemade tomato sauce and plenty of melted mozzarella cheese. Fresh tomatoes and chopped onion are slowly cooked until soft, then mashed into a naturally flavorful sauce before being combined with cream, parsley, and mozzarella for a smooth and velvety finish.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes

Ingredients

  • 250g pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 5 medium tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cooking cream
  • 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • 1 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce (for the baking dish)

Instructions

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
    Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the whole tomatoes and chopped onion. Cover the pan and cook until the tomatoes are soft and tender.
    Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
    Mash the tomatoes and onion directly in the pan until a rustic sauce forms. Season with salt and black pepper, then stir in the fresh parsley. Add the mozzarella cheese and cooking cream, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
    Step 4: Combine the Pasta
    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well until every piece is evenly coated with the creamy tomato sauce.
    Step 5: Bake
    Spread the tomato sauce evenly across the bottom of a baking dish. Add the prepared pasta, then top generously with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden.
    Step 6: Serve
    Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy while hot with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.