Roasted Tomato Basil Penne Bake

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful pasta dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients, this Roasted Tomato Basil Penne Bake is your new go-to recipe. It combines the bright sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes with the aromatic punch of fresh basil and a luscious blend of cheeses, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish delivers cozy satisfaction with every creamy, cheesy bite.

Reasons to Love Roasted Tomato Basil Penne Bake

• Fresh and vibrant flavors: Roasting cherry tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth, balanced beautifully by fragrant basil.
• Simple ingredients: You likely have most of these staples in your kitchen already, making it perfect for an easy yet impressive meal.
• Crowd-pleaser: The cheesy, comforting nature of this penne bake makes it irresistible for family dinners or potlucks.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it in advance, then bake when ready to serve — saving you time on busy days.
• Vegetarian and adaptable: This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can be customized with additions like sautéed vegetables or grilled chicken.
• Perfect pasta bake texture: Creamy ricotta and mozzarella create a melty interior, while the roasted tomatoes add bursts of juiciness.

Ingredient List

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Setup & Equipment

• Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta.
• Baking dish: Approximately 9×13 inches works best for even baking.
• Baking sheet: For roasting the cherry tomatoes.
• Mixing bowls: One for mixing cheeses and basil, another for tossing pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: To combine ingredients gently without breaking pasta.
• Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot trays and dishes.

Stepwise Method: Roasted Tomato Basil Penne Bake

Step 1: Preheat and prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to roast the tomatoes evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Roast the cherry tomatoes

Place the halved cherry tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss gently to coat. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until tomatoes are soft, caramelized, and bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Cook the penne pasta

While the tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 4: Mix cheeses and basil

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and chopped fresh basil. Stir until well blended and fragrant.

Step 5: Assemble the bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the roasted tomato mixture. Add the cheese and basil blend, folding gently to mix everything thoroughly without mashing the tomatoes.

Step 6: Transfer and top

Pour the pasta mixture into your baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top for that irresistible golden crust.

Step 7: Bake to perfection

Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with slightly browned edges.

Step 8: Garnish and serve

Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Add roasted zucchini or eggplant for an extra veggie boost in summer and fall.
• In cooler months, mix in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a heartier bite.
• Swap out half the cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes to intensify that tomato flavor.
• For a bit of protein, stir in cooked shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey before baking.
• Finish with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or balsamic glaze to elevate the dish.

Flavor Logic

The magic of this Roasted Tomato Basil Penne Bake lies in the balance of flavors and textures:

• Roasted tomatoes: Their natural sugars caramelize under heat, providing a complex sweetness that complements the savory notes.
• Fresh basil: Adds a fragrant, herbal brightness that cuts through the richness of the cheeses.
• Ricotta: Creamy and mild, it binds the pasta and tomatoes without overpowering.
• Mozzarella: Melts beautifully for gooey, stretchy bites.
• Parmesan: Brings a nutty, salty punch that enhances overall depth.
• Garlic and oregano: Provide savory aromatics that tie the dish together.

This combination creates a harmonious pasta bake that’s satisfying and layered with flavor — perfect for any occasion.

Best Ways to Store

After enjoying your Roasted Tomato Basil Penne Bake, you might have leftovers, and luckily this dish stores beautifully:

• Allow the bake to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions, but oven reheating keeps the texture more intact.
• For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Roasted Tomato Basil Penne Bake FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works perfectly due to its shape and texture, you can substitute with rigatoni, ziti, or even fusilli. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure pasta is al dente before baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for plant-based cheese alternatives. Look for dairy-free ricotta-style spreads and shredded vegan mozzarella to maintain creaminess and meltability.

Can I add protein to the bake?

Definitely! Adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even shrimp can turn this into a heartier meal. For a seafood twist, try pairing with a Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Penne recipe for inspiration.

How do I make the roasted tomatoes without an oven?

If you don’t have an oven, you can sauté the cherry tomatoes with garlic and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until they soften and caramelize. While not exactly the same as roasting, this method still brings out great flavor.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Creamy Tomato Basil Soup — warm and comforting, perfect alongside your pasta bake.
• Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta — a fresh, veggie-packed pasta dish with similar vibrant flavors.
• Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Penne — for a seafood twist on tomato and basil pasta.

Wrap-Up

If you’re looking for a recipe that combines simple ingredients with maximum flavor, this Roasted Tomato Basil Penne Bake will quickly become a favorite. The roasting process amplifies the natural sweetness of tomatoes, while fresh basil and a blend of cheeses create the ultimate creamy, comforting pasta bake. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for any season. Plus, with options to customize and make ahead, it fits perfectly into busy weeknight rotations or special family dinners. Whip up this dish and enjoy a satisfying meal that tastes like it took way more effort than it actually did!

Share on Pinterest