Thread: Caprese Pasta

Ingredients

1 lb rigatoni pasta
1 tsp salt
1 TB olive oil
2 cups spaghetti sauce
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream OR half-and-half
6 ounces mozzarella
1 cup grape tomatoes
3-5 fresh basil leaves



Instructions

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.

Cook pasta according to package in a large pot of water with salt. Once pasta is fully cooked, drain and drizzle with olive oil.

In a large pan warm spaghetti sauce over medium heat. One the sauce is heated, add in heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2-3 minutes. Once cheese is melted pour sauce over noodles.

Cut grape tomatoes in half and mozzarella in 1/2 inch cubes. Then combine the mozzarella (save about 1/4 cup) and tomatoes with the pasta
Tear the fresh basil leaves into small pieces and stir into pasta mix.

Pour into a 9x9 baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.

Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until golden brown.


OPTIONAL

I had four chicken sausages that I sliced up and added to the pasta dish before putting it into the oven - tasted really good. Next time I may try adding some chicken pieces chopped into cubes!!

Sounds delicious, Karen!

Mmmm, I love basil!! Sounds yummy!!