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Pasta alla Sorrentina

Irresistibly Cheesy Pasta alla Sorrentina for Cozy Nights

Pasta alla Sorrentina is a cozy vegetarian dish, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Easy Dinners
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • Colander
  • baking dish

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 8 oz penne or rigatoni gluten-free pasta works too

For the Sauce

  • 28 oz canned whole tomatoes or fresh tomatoes can use crushed tomatoes for smoother consistency
  • 1 yellow onion adds sweetness and depth
  • 3 cloves garlic minced for even distribution
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil can swap with vegetable oil if desired

For the Cheese

  • 8 oz mozzarella cheese diced for optimal incorporation
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano is a suitable alternative

For Seasoning

  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne or rigatoni for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and reserve a cup of pasta water.
  • Prepare Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, sauté chopped onion for 5-7 minutes until translucent.
  • Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Incorporate Tomatoes: Add canned tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  • Mix in Pasta: Fold the cooked pasta into the sauce and adjust with reserved pasta water if needed.
  • Add Cheese: Stir in diced mozzarella, allowing it to melt slightly.
  • Garnish: Fold in fresh basil leaves and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • Bake (Optional): Transfer mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle Parmesan, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes.
  • Rest: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

Let the flavors meld together for at least 5 minutes after cooking for the best taste.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg
Keyword cheesy pasta, comfort food, easy pasta recipes, Pasta alla Sorrentina, vegetarian pasta
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