Save 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.
This dish was an instant hit at our holiday dinner, impressing guests with its rich flavors and eye-catching look.
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 Sharing this meal with my family always brings us closer, enjoying both the flavors and the cozy atmosphere it creates.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof baking dish, Medium pot, Colander, Mixing spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (goat cheese, Parmesan) and gluten (pasta, breadcrumbs). Contains pine nuts (tree nuts), if used. Check all ingredient labels for possible cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 490, Total Fat 22 g, Carbohydrates 55 g, Protein 19 g
Save This dish combines stunning presentation with flavorful comfort a perfect meal for any occasion.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pastas like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well and complement the textures.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of goat cheese?
Goat cheese provides a unique tang and creaminess; however, creamy cheeses like ricotta can be used for a milder flavor, though textures will vary.
- → How do I get the snowflake crumble effect?
The topping is made by mixing Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and olive oil, then sprinkling it evenly over the goat cheese before baking to form a golden, textured crust.
- → Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the pasta and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions to accommodate dietary needs without compromising taste.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Adding sun-dried tomatoes or baby spinach before baking enhances flavor and nutrition without altering the dish’s creamy balance.