Baked Goat Cheese Pasta

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 brings a festive touch to the dinner table, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holidays.

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

Quickly chop vegetables, mince herbs, and blend sauces for faster, everyday meal preparation.

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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.

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My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy this recipe during the cold season it always brings warmth and festive cheer to our gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Italian white wine for a perfect meal.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the pasta and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Add sun-dried tomatoes or baby spinach for added flavor.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

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Mix doughs, batters, and whipped cream easily for baking cakes, cookies, and everyday treats.

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This goat cheese snowflake pasta makes an impressive and delicious dish with minimal effort a true crowd-pleaser.