Pasta Sorrentina is not just a dish; it’s a comforting embrace on a plate, a combination of flavors and textures that savor the soul. When I make it, I’m often reminded of family gatherings, where laughter filled the air, and the aroma wafted through the kitchen. Cooking this classic Italian pasta will bring that cozy feeling to your home too. If you’re looking for an easy yet utterly satisfying meal, this Pasta Sorrentina will elevate any dinner or special occasion without requiring hours of slaving away in the kitchen.
This dish shines with its simplicity: rich tomato sauce, creamy melted mozzarella, and a sprinkle of fresh basil come together in a way that’s both comforting and delightful. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a beautiful, heartwarming meal that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or looking to hone your culinary skills, Pasta Sorrentina is incredibly approachable and rewarding.
Why you’ll love Pasta Sorrentina
- Quick to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Delicious blend of cheesy and savory flavors.
- Can be made ahead for easy entertaining.
- Vegetarian-friendly and budget-conscious.
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients.
“It’s easy to make and tastes fantastic—my family loves it!”
Step-by-step overview
Pasta Sorrentina is a straightforward dish made by boiling pasta, creating a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic and onion, and combining it all with melted mozzarella. Each step is designed to bring out the best flavors without requiring any complex techniques.
What ingredients do I need for Pasta Sorrentina?
- 400g (14 oz) pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 800g (28 oz) canned whole tomatoes or fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 250g (9 oz) mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 50g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- Pasta: Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer.
- Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add brightness, while canned tomatoes are a time-saver.
- Cheese: Consider using smoked mozzarella for a deeper flavor.
How do I make Pasta Sorrentina step-by-step?
Creating this dish involves simple steps that anyone can follow, making it perfect for any level of culinary expertise.
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour in the chopped canned or fresh tomatoes. Stir well and season with salt and pepper. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently folding the pasta into the sauce until it’s well-coated.
- Stir in the diced mozzarella, allowing it to melt slightly into the pasta mixture.
- Add freshly torn basil leaves and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- For an extra cheesy top, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: Allow the pasta to sit for a few minutes after baking; this will help the flavors meld together beautifully without losing heat.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use salted water for boiling pasta to enhance its flavor.
- If your sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to loosen it.
- For a touch of elegance, top with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
How should I serve it?
Garnish each plate of Pasta Sorrentina with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic hint, and consider a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance its rich flavors. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Absolutely! You can prepare Pasta Sorrentina in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, covering it with foil to keep the moisture in. If you freeze it, be sure to leave out any cheese toppings and add them fresh before serving.
Food safety note: Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How do I fix common issues?
If your Pasta Sorrentina turns out too dry, add a splash of water or broth when reheating to add moisture. If it’s bland, a sprinkle of salt or a dash of vinegar can elevate the flavors without overpowering them. Should it be too saucy, you can allow it to cook a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
What variations can I try?
Feel free to get creative! You can add sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrients, or substitute the mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free version. Experimenting with different herbs like oregano or parsley can also add a lovely fresh touch to this classic dish.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While mozzarella is traditional, you can try other varieties like provolone or fontina for different flavor profiles.
What herbs can I use besides basil?
Oregano and parsley are excellent alternatives that can also enhance the dish. Fresh or dried versions can work, depending on what you have on hand.
Is Pasta Sorrentina suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish keeps well in the refrigerator and can be frozen for future meals. Just be mindful of toppings when warming them up.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would be delicious in this pasta, adding both flavor and protein to your meal.
Pasta Sorrentina is more than just a meal; it’s a way to share warmth and joy with those around you. The combination of juicy tomatoes, melting mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a dish that comforts the heart and pleases the palate. With this recipe at hand, you’re all set to make a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!
Pasta Sorrentina
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour in the chopped canned or fresh tomatoes. Stir well and season with salt and pepper. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently folding the pasta into the sauce until it’s well-coated.
- Stir in the diced mozzarella, allowing it to melt slightly into the pasta mixture.
- Add freshly torn basil leaves and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- For an extra cheesy top, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.