Go Back
Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Pasta Bake recipe photo
Print Recipe Save it for later

Roasted Tomato Basil Pasta Bake

This Roasted Tomato Basil Pasta Bake is hearty, cheesy, and packed with fresh roasted tomatoes and basil for a comforting, family-friendly dinner.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta of choice Penne, rigatoni, or ziti
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil for roasting and sautéing garlic
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.25 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 1 cup cooked chicken shredded

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, half the minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the tomatoes are soft, caramelized, and bursting with flavor.
  • While the tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook until just al dente — usually about 1-2 minutes less than package directions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  • In a small pan, warm the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rest of the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, roasted tomatoes (including any pan juices), sautéed garlic oil, and shredded cooked chicken. Toss everything gently to coat and distribute the ingredients evenly.
  • Transfer half of the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the layer. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, then finish with the remaining cheeses.
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
  • Remove the pasta bake from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the top just before serving. This adds a wonderful pop of color and fresh herbaceous flavor.

Equipment

  • Baking dish (9x13 inch)
  • Large Pot
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Knife and cutting board

Notes

  • Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes after baking to set and make serving easier.
  • Use fresh herbs generously to brighten the dish and balance richness.
  • For a creamier texture, stir in ricotta or cream cheese before baking.