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MealDinnerPastaTree nutsDairyGlutenBaked PastaHigh-FiberHigh-ProteinUnder 1 HourUnder 45 MinutesSpecial OccasionFood ProcessorCast Iron PanBakingLunchVegetarianHealthyComfort FoodItalian

Creamy Pesto Pasta Bake

featured in Easy-To-Make Pesto Recipes

This flavorful pasta bake is made with al dente penne pasta tossed in a creamy pesto sauce, then topped with mozzarella cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a potluck party.

98% would make again
Total Time

40 minutes

40 min

Prep Time

20 minutes

20 min

Cook Time

20 minutes

20 min

Creamy Pesto Pasta Bake
Total Time

40 minutes

40 min

Prep Time

20 minutes

20 min

Cook Time

20 minutes

20 min

Ingredients

for 4 servings

Pesto

  • 4 cups fresh basil (160 g)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ½ cup pine nuts (65 g)
  • ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese (80 g), grated
  • ¾ cup olive oil (180 mL)
  • ¼ cup cold water (60 mL)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (120 mL)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper

Pasta Bake

  • 12 oz fusilli pasta (340 g), al dente
  • 1 cup cherry tomato (200 g), halved
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (110 g)
  • 8 oz mozzarella ball (225 g)

Nutrition Info

  • Calories 713
  • Fat 51g
  • Carbs 37g
  • Fiber 1g
  • Sugar 3g
  • Protein 31g

Estimated values based on one serving size.

Preparation

  1. To make the pesto, mix basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, cold water, heavy cream, salt, and pepper in a food processor for about 30 seconds. Add in olive oil. Process until combined, set aside.
  2. Cook fusilli to very al dente, or about 3-4 minutes before the package instructs for cook time, then drain pasta.
  3. Halve cherry tomatoes.
  4. In a skillet or casserole pan, mix fusilli, cherry tomatoes, and pesto.
  5. Top with grated parmesan and mozzarella balls.
  6. Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes, or until mozzarella has melted.
  7. Garnish with additional parmesan and fresh basil. Serve immediately.
  8. Enjoy!
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Creamy Pesto Pasta Bake