Description
Pasta alla Sorrentina is a classic Italian dish featuring tender pasta baked with a fragrant tomato sauce, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella cheese. This comforting recipe combines sautéed garlic and crushed tomatoes simmered to perfection, then layered with pasta and cheese before being broiled to achieve a bubbly, golden finish. Perfect for a cozy family meal or a flavorful vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz pasta (such as gnocchi or penne)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Cheese Topping
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the tomato sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Simmer the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano. Stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Add basil and pasta: Stir the chopped fresh basil leaves into the sauce, then add the cooked pasta. Mix gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Incorporate mozzarella: Add half of the mozzarella cubes to the pasta mixture and fold them in carefully to distribute the cheese.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Evenly scatter the remaining mozzarella cubes on top, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake under broiler: Place the baking dish under the oven broiler for 2–3 minutes or until the cheese on top melts and becomes bubbly and golden. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot, optionally garnished with extra fresh basil leaves for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Notes
- Traditional Pasta alla Sorrentina is typically made with gnocchi, but you can substitute any short pasta like penne or rigatoni.
- For enhanced richness, stir in a spoonful of butter or drizzle extra virgin olive oil just before serving.
- Keep a close eye while broiling to avoid scorching the cheese topping.
- This dish is best served fresh but leftovers can be reheated gently in an oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
