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 recipe quickly became a holiday favorite in my family thanks to its unique blend of tangy goat cheese and fresh basil that never fails to impress guests.
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 My family always gathers around the table eagerly awaiting this pasta, making every meal feel like a special occasion.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy and tangy flavors of the pasta.
Variations
Add sun-dried tomatoes or baby spinach before baking for extra flavor and nutrients.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
Save This dish is sure to impress any crowd with its unique presentation and irresistible flavor.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → How do I achieve the snowflake-like crumb topping?
Mix grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and olive oil, then sprinkle evenly over the goat cheese before baking to create the crisp, decorative topping.
- → Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the pasta and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- → What’s the best way to prevent the goat cheese from drying out?
Position the cheese amid the cherry tomatoes and baste it gently with olive oil to keep it moist during baking.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
Sun-dried tomatoes or baby spinach can be added before baking for enhanced flavor and texture.
- → What wine pairs well with this pasta?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy, tangy flavors and fresh basil notes beautifully.