Baked Penne with Cherry Tomatoes and Ricotta

Introduction

Embark on a culinary journey with this exquisite Baked Penne with Cherry Tomatoes and Salted Ricotta, a dish that encapsulates the vibrant flavors of Italy while offering a comforting, hearty experience perfect for any occasion. This recipe, featured on Love With Recipes, combines the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes, the creamy richness of salted ricotta, and the satisfying texture of al dente penne, all baked to perfection. Its straightforward preparation makes it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs seeking a quick yet impressive meal. The harmonious blend of fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your palate and impress your guests. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this dish promises to be a memorable centerpiece that captures the essence of authentic Italian cuisine.

Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan with a lid
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Grater for cheese
• Baking dish (preferably 27×19 cm or 10.5×7.5 inches)
• Oven mitts or pot holders
• Colander or strainer
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Knife and chopping board
• Mixing bowl (optional, for serving)

Tags

• Italian Cuisine
• Pasta
• Baked Dish
• Vegetarian
• Comfort Food
• Family Dinner
• Quick & Easy

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings. Each serving provides a satisfying portion of pasta complemented by fresh tomato sauce and creamy salted ricotta, with enough leftovers for seconds or to be enjoyed as a generous single portion.

Difficulty Level

Medium. While the steps are straightforward, attention to detail—such as timing the pasta cooking and achieving the perfect golden top during baking—ensures a professional presentation. Basic cooking skills like boiling pasta, sautéing, and baking are required, but no advanced techniques are necessary.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Dairy (ricotta cheese), Gluten (pasta)
• Potential allergens: Milk, Wheat

Dietary Preference

Vegetarian. This recipe does not include meat but offers rich flavors through fresh vegetables and cheese. It can be adapted for gluten-free diets by substituting regular penne with gluten-free pasta options.

Course

Main Course / Primi Piatti (First Course in Italian cuisine)

Cuisine

Italian

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Tomato Sauce

Begin by meticulously washing the cherry tomatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or residual pesticides. Use your hands or a soft brush to gently scrub the surface if necessary. Once thoroughly cleaned, transfer the tomatoes to a cutting board. Using a sharp chef’s knife, quarter each cherry tomato with a clean motion, slicing through the middle to create four equal pieces. This method ensures even cooking and releases maximum flavor into the sauce. Alternatively, for a quicker approach, you can halve them if you prefer a chunkier texture or if you’re pressed for time.

Set a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Pour in the extra virgin olive oil, allowing it to warm evenly. When the oil begins to shimmer, indicating it is hot enough, add the whole garlic clove. Do not chop or crush the garlic at this stage; instead, add it whole to infuse the oil with its aroma, making sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Let the garlic gently brown for about one minute, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon or spatula to ensure even cooking. Once it reaches a light golden hue, carefully remove the garlic from the pan and discard it. This process imparts a subtle garlic flavor without overwhelming the dish with raw or bitter notes.

Step 2: Cooking the Cherry Tomatoes

Next, add the freshly quartered cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the infused olive oil. Stir gently to coat the tomatoes with the flavorful oil. Season with a pinch of fine salt—start with about a half teaspoon—and stir again to distribute evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap heat, creating a steamy environment that accelerates the cooking process. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the tomatoes simmer for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the cherry tomatoes will soften, release their juices, and form a vibrant, fragrant sauce. The natural sweetness of the cherry tomatoes will intensify, creating a perfect base for the pasta.

Add fresh basil leaves toward the end of the simmering process. Tear or chop the basil roughly before adding to release their essential oils and maximize flavor. Cover again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the basil to infuse the sauce. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Cooking the Penne Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, ensuring there is enough to comfortably accommodate the pasta with plenty of room for expansion. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Salt the boiling water generously—about 1 to 2 tablespoons of fine salt per 4 liters of water—to mirror the salinity of the sea, which is a fundamental principle in Italian pasta cooking. Add the penne rigate to the boiling water, stirring immediately to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Typically, this takes around 10-12 minutes, but always check the package for precise timing. Taste a piece before draining to ensure it reaches your preferred level of doneness.

Once cooked, reserve about 100ml (a small cup) of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be used later to adjust the consistency of the sauce if it becomes too thick or to help the sauce adhere better to the pasta. Drain the pasta in a colander, shaking gently to remove excess water, then transfer it directly into a large mixing bowl or back into the pot if you prefer to combine it immediately with the sauce.

Step 4: Combining Pasta and Tomato Sauce

Take the skillet with the tomato sauce off the heat. Add the drained penne directly into the sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece of pasta evenly. Use a wooden spoon or spatula for this process, ensuring that the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce thoroughly. If the mixture appears too thick or sticky, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved—creamy, smooth, and well-coated.

Step 5: Incorporating the Salted Ricotta

Grate the salted ricotta cheese using a coarse grater. The coarse grating creates larger cheese flakes, which melt more slowly and provide a delightful texture contrast in the dish. Reserve about 50g of the grated ricotta for the topping. Add the remaining grated cheese to the pasta and sauce, stirring gently to distribute it evenly. The salted ricotta will melt into the warm pasta, enriching the dish with a creamy, savory flavor. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with additional salt if necessary, considering the saltiness of the ricotta.

Step 6: Assembling and Baking

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved grated ricotta over the top to create a cheesy crust that will turn golden and bubbly during baking. For added flavor and visual appeal, consider garnishing with extra basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil.

Step 7: Baking to Perfection

Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the top should turn a beautiful golden brown, and the cheese should bubble invitingly. If you prefer a crispier crust, bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, but be cautious not to burn the cheese. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier without the dish collapsing or sticking to the edges.

Step 8: Serving and Garnishing

Before serving, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves for a burst of herbal freshness and visual appeal. Serve the baked penne hot, accompanied by a simple green salad or crusty bread to complete the meal. For an extra touch of flavor, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can elevate the dish further.

Preparation Tips

• Use ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best flavor; cherry tomatoes vary in sweetness, so choose the freshest available.
• If you prefer a more rustic texture, leave some cherry tomato pieces larger; for a smoother sauce, mash them slightly while cooking.
• Adjust the saltiness by controlling the amount of salted ricotta used; taste the sauce before adding more salt.
• For a vegan version, substitute salted ricotta with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
• To add a spicy kick, sprinkle red chili flakes into the tomato sauce during cooking.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For a more intense tomato flavor, roast the cherry tomatoes in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes before adding them to the skillet.
• Infuse the olive oil with herbs like thyme or rosemary along with garlic for a more aromatic sauce base.
• Mix in cooked vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
• Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor; pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that inhibit melting.
• Let the baked dish rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven to allow the flavors to settle and make slicing easier.

Add-ons

• Red pepper flakes for heat
• Extra basil or parsley for garnish
• Shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for additional cheesiness
• Olives or capers for a briny twist

Side Dishes

• Fresh mixed green salad with a vinaigrette
• Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread
• Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or peppers
• Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic reduction

Improvements

• Enhance the sauce by adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of sugar to balance acidity.
• Use heirloom cherry tomatoes for more complex flavors and vibrant colors.
• Incorporate a touch of smoked paprika or chili powder for depth and a smoky undertone.
• Experiment with different cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago for unique flavor profiles.

Save and Store

This baked penne dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that the texture of the cheese topping may change slightly after freezing and reheating.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with fusilli, rigatoni, or short tubes like ziti. Choose shapes that hold sauce well and are suitable for baking.

Is salted ricotta necessary?

Salted ricotta adds a distinctive savory flavor and creamy texture. However, if unavailable, regular ricotta seasoned with a pinch of salt can be used, or try other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a different twist.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely. Replace salted ricotta with vegan cheese alternatives or seasoned tofu. Use olive oil instead of butter or dairy-based ingredients, and consider adding nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.

How can I make the sauce more flavorful?

Infuse the olive oil with herbs like rosemary or thyme, add a splash of white wine during cooking, or incorporate roasted garlic for a deeper flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Baked Penne with Cherry Tomatoes and Salted Ricotta embodies the essence of simple yet sophisticated Italian comfort food. Its harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory elements makes it a versatile dish suitable for various occasions—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The combination of fresh ingredients, minimal effort, and maximum flavor aligns perfectly with the philosophy of Love With Recipes, aiming to make home cooking both accessible and extraordinary. Embrace the vibrant colors, inviting aromas, and rich textures of this dish, and enjoy the satisfying experience of bringing authentic Italian flavors to your table. Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability—feel free to customize with your favorite herbs, cheeses, or vegetables to make it uniquely yours. Buon appetito!

References

• Gino D’Acampo, “Italian Food,” HarperCollins, 2018.
• Marcella Hazan, “The Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking,” Alfred A. Knopf, 1992.