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 family favorite during the holidays, impressing guests with its beautiful presentation and comforting flavors.
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 We love gathering around the table to enjoy this dish and share stories, especially during festive seasons when the snowflake design fits perfectly with the mood.
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
Calories 490 Total Fat 22 g Carbohydrates 55 g Protein 19 g per serving
Save This elegant pasta is simple to make yet impressively delicious perfect for a special dinner or holiday gathering.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni holds the sauce well and complements the creamy texture.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the pasta and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary needs.
- → How do I achieve the snowflake effect on the goat cheese?
Mix Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and olive oil, then sprinkle evenly over the goat cheese before baking to create a delicate crust resembling a snowflake.
- → Can pine nuts be omitted?
Absolutely, pine nuts add a subtle crunch but can be left out without compromising the overall flavor.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy goat cheese and roasted tomato flavors nicely.