Baked Pesto Pasta
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
Note: if you haven’t made the pesto yet, make that first! You can also use store-bought pesto. Any variety works.
- 2
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a 9x3 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- 3
Cook the penne until it’s al dente according to the directions.
- 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
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!