Three-Cheese Baked Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

A creamy, baked pasta dish with a tangy tomato layer and three melted cheeses for a perfect crowd-pleaser.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Pasta

Prep: 25 minutes. Cook: 30 minutes.

Serves 6.

Ingredients

• 12 oz Penne pasta
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 4 cloves Garlic
• 1/2 cup Sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 cup Cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup Ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup Fresh basil
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper
• 1/2 cup Water

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown.
3. Step 3: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and halved cherry tomatoes, and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne, mozzarella, parmesan, ricotta, and fresh basil. Add the tomato mixture from the skillet and toss until well combined. If the mixture is too dry, add 1/4 cup reserved pasta water.
5. Step 5: Transfer to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.