Baked Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes And Ricotta Cheese Recipe

Escape the stress of your day with this comforting and healthy baked pasta dish! Made with whole wheat penne, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy ricotta cheese, this recipe is surprisingly easy and delivers big on flavor. It's the perfect weeknight meal that's both satisfying and wholesome. Get ready for a burst of Mediterranean sunshine in every bite!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 500.5 kcal
Protein 34g
Rating 4.0 (6 Reviews)
Baked Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes And Ricotta Cheese

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Baked Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes And Ricotta Cheese

  • Olive Oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • Garlic Cloves
  • Sun Dried Tomato
  • Diced Tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Ground Black Pepper
  • Penne Pasta
  • Ricotta Cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish

How to Make Baked Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes And Ricotta Cheese

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add 1 medium onion, chopped, and sauté for 4 minutes, until softened and starting to brown.
  4. Add 2 cloves garlic, minced, and 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped. Sauté for 3 more minutes.
  5. Stir in 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  6. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound whole wheat penne and cook for 7-8 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  8. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, 15 ounces ricotta cheese, and the sun-dried tomato sauce. Mix gently to combine.
  9. Pour the pasta mixture into a medium-sized (approximately 9x13 inch) baking dish.
  10. Top with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
  11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly browned.
  12. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

25 g

Sugar

26g

Fat

43g

Carbs

19g