Description
Pasta alla Sorrentina is a classic Italian comfort dish featuring al dente pasta tossed in a rich tomato basil sauce, topped with fresh mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden. This simple yet hearty recipe delivers authentic Italian flavors, perfect for a cozy family meal or an elegant dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Cheese & Garnish
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the pasta.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the penne or rigatoni pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Simmer Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for 15 minutes to develop flavor.
- Add Basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil into the simmering tomato sauce to infuse it with fresh herbal notes.
- Toss Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked pasta with the tomato basil sauce until evenly coated.
- Assemble Baking Dish: Transfer the sauced pasta to a baking dish. Fold half of the cubed fresh mozzarella into the pasta for melty pockets of cheese throughout.
- Top with Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cubes and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot as a hearty, comforting meal.
Notes
- Fresh mozzarella provides the best creamy texture and melts beautifully.
- For added protein, consider mixing in cooked Italian sausage or grilled chicken.
- Serve this dish alongside garlic bread and a green salad for a full Italian-inspired meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
