Baked Pesto Pasta

Baked Pesto Pasta

from howsweeteats.com
40 min
6 servings

This baked pesto pasta is an incredibly easy side dish that goes with just about anything. A few ingredients come together to make this herby, cheesy pasta an absolute delight that everyone loves.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • ¾ cup pesto
  • 1 ½ cups shredded italian cheeses, (like mozzarella, provolone)
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, (sliced)
  • 3 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese
  • crushed red pepper flakes, (for serving)
  • fresh basil, (for topping)

Directions

  1. 1

    Note: if you haven’t made the pesto yet, make that first! You can also use store-bought pesto. Any variety works.

  2. 2

    Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a 9x3 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

  3. 3

    Cook the penne until it’s al dente according to the directions.

  4. 4

    Place the penne in the baking dish. Add the pesto and toss well until all the noodles and pesto are combined. Stir in the 1 ½ cups shredded cheese. Top with slices of fresh mozzarella.

  5. 5

    Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Sprinkle with the parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Top with fresh basil. Serve immediately!