Creamy Tomato Rebel-Float Pasta (Printable)

Tender pasta in creamy tomato sauce topped and baked until golden for a twist on a comforting classic.

# Ingredient list:

→ Pasta

01 - 340 g dry penne rigate

→ Sauce

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 800 g canned crushed tomatoes
06 - 1 tablespoon tomato paste
07 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
09 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
10 - 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
11 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt

→ Cream

12 - 180 ml heavy cream

→ Cheese

13 - 125 g shredded mozzarella cheese
14 - 30 g grated Parmesan cheese

→ Garnish

15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow to heat fully.
02 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente, approximately 9-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion, sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Simmer sauce, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes.
05 - Reduce heat to low and pour in heavy cream, stirring until well blended and creamy. Remove from heat.
06 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with tomato cream sauce. Transfer mixture to a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
07 - Place dish in oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbling.
08 - Allow bake to cool for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy to assemble with common ingredients found in most kitchens
  • Bakes up golden and bubbly for ultimate comfort food satisfaction
  • Customizable spice and cheese levels to fit every palate
  • Makes fantastic leftovers and reheats beautifully
02 -
  • High in protein and calcium thanks to dairy and pasta
  • Perfect for make-ahead prep and freezing
  • Adapts easily for vegetarian and gluten-free needs
03 -
  • Toast the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness
  • Always undercook your pasta slightly so it finishes perfectly in the oven
  • Let the casserole rest for fifteen minutes before serving so it sets and slices cleanly