Save to Pinterest A festive and creamy pasta dish featuring tangy baked goat cheese, roasted tomatoes, and fragrant basil, finished with a snowflake-like crumble for a stunning presentation.
I first served this at a holiday dinner and it was an instant hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
- Tomato Sauce: 2 pints (600 g) cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Goat Cheese Snowflake: 8 oz (225 g) fresh goat cheese log; 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup (25 g) panko breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp olive oil
- Finish: 1/2 cup (15 g) fresh basil leaves, torn; 1/3 cup (40 g) toasted pine nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2:
- In a large ovenproof baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.
- Step 3:
- Place the goat cheese log in the center of the tomatoes. In a small bowl, mix Parmesan, panko, and 1 tbsp olive oil sprinkle this mixture evenly over the goat cheese to resemble a snowflake.
- Step 4:
- Bake for 25 30 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and blistered, and the cheese is golden on top.
- Step 5:
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Step 6:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven. Add hot pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to the dish. Stir gently to create a creamy sauce, breaking up the goat cheese as you mix.
- Step 7:
- Fold in torn basil leaves and pine nuts, if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save to Pinterest This dish brings the family together every year for a cozy holiday meal full of warmth and joy.
Nutritional Information
Per serving, this dish offers 490 calories, 22 g of total fat, 55 g of carbohydrates, and 19 g of protein for a well-rounded meal.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof baking dish, medium pot, colander, mixing spoon.
Allergen Information
Check all ingredient labels for possible cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
Save to Pinterest This baked goat cheese pasta is sure to impress both your taste buds and your guests with its beautiful presentation and delicious flavors.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni is ideal as it holds the creamy sauce and roasted tomatoes well.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of goat cheese?
While goat cheese provides a tangy creaminess, fresh ricotta or feta can be alternatives but will alter the flavor slightly.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions or crushed nuts for the topping.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Yes, adding sun-dried tomatoes or baby spinach before baking enhances flavor and nutrition.
- → What wine pairs well with this pasta?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy goat cheese and fresh basil notes beautifully.