Creamy Caprese Pasta
Try this Creamy Caprese Pasta recipe.
Try this Creamy Caprese Pasta recipe.
- 1 pound whole wheat pasta (noodles such as penne work bes
- 1 cup of your favorite pasta/tomato sauce
- 1/3 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese + more for garnish
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cut into cubes
- 1 pint of grape tomatoes (i cut some in half and left so
- 1 bunch of fresh basil leaves
- Carbohydrate 1.33863178987 g
- Cholesterol 45.3153614506667 mg
- Fat 11.8515774108533 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 7.28417763739333 g
- Saturated Fat 7.43528409966733 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (162g)
- Sodium 183.020214655667 mg
- Sugar 1.33863178987 g
- Trans Fat 0.612020070343999 g
- Calories 140 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Boil water and cook pasta according to directions.
- While pasta is cooking, heat tomato sauce over low heat in a large saucepan.
- Once warm, stir in heavy cream and grated parmesan.
- Once pasta is done cooking, drain and dump into the sauce, mixing to coat and turning off heat.
- Fold in mozzarella cubes and tomatoes, then chop 3-4 fresh basil leaves and add them in too.
- Once combined, spray a baking dish with non-stick spray and pour the entire pasta mixture into the dish.
- Top with fresh mozzarella rounds.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Top with additional fresh basil and grated cheese.
- Serve with garlic bread.
- You can also add in chicken, steak or seafood for some protein.
Creamy Caprese Pasta: A Simple Weeknight Delight
As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This Creamy Caprese Pasta has become a staple in our household, a perfect blend of fresh, vibrant ingredients and satisfying comfort. It's elegant enough for a dinner party, yet simple enough for a weeknight meal, even when I'm juggling work deadlines and after-school activities.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It starts with a good quality whole wheat pasta – penne works beautifully, but feel free to experiment with your favorite shape. I love using whole wheat for that extra fiber boost, making it a slightly healthier option without sacrificing taste. Then, the magic happens with the creamy sauce. A simple combination of tomato sauce, heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version), and freshly grated Parmesan cheese creates a rich and decadent base. The addition of fresh mozzarella cubes and juicy grape tomatoes adds a burst of freshness, contrasting perfectly with the creamy richness of the sauce.
Fresh basil is the secret weapon here. Those fragrant leaves elevate the entire dish, lending a bright, herbaceous note that balances the creamy sauce and sweet tomatoes. I usually add some chopped basil directly to the pasta mixture, and then garnish with a few extra leaves before serving. The final touch? A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. It’s a cheesy, melty, bubbly heaven! And believe me, the baking process is essential for this dish; it takes the already delicious pasta and elevates it to a whole new level. The slight browning of the mozzarella adds another layer of flavor and texture, leaving everyone wanting more.
This dish is wonderfully versatile. Sometimes, I add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, transforming it into a complete and satisfying meal. Other times, I keep it vegetarian, and it's just as delicious. It's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. The simple steps and readily available ingredients make it a perfect recipe for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner. Trust me; once you try this Creamy Caprese Pasta, it will become a regular fixture on your dinner rotation, too.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Add some veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers would be delicious additions.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp for extra protein.
- Go vegan: Replace the heavy cream with cashew cream and use vegan mozzarella.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the pasta dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
This Creamy Caprese Pasta isn't just a recipe; it's a taste of simple elegance and comforting flavors. It's a dish that nourishes both the body and the soul, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. So, give it a try, and let me know what you think! I'm always happy to hear from fellow food enthusiasts.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a light and refreshing meal.
- Pair with crusty garlic bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.
- Enjoy a glass of crisp white wine to complement the fresh flavors.
I hope you love this recipe as much as my family does. Happy cooking!
