If you are looking for a dish that wraps up the heart and soul of southern Italian home cooking, look no further than this Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe. Imagine tender pasta bathed in a luscious, slow-simmered tomato sauce, dotted with pockets of creamy mozzarella, and infused with the fragrant brightness of fresh basil. This comforting baked pasta is not only easy to prepare but also brings a warm, rustic charm to your dinner table, perfect for any occasion that calls for a little Italian magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe plays an essential role, whether it’s creating texture, adding layers of flavor, or giving that vibrant, inviting color. From the perfectly al dente pasta to the fresh basil, this list keeps things simple but satisfying.
- 12 oz short pasta (gnocchi, penne, or rigatoni): Choose your favorite shape to hold onto all that delicious sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds smooth richness and helps gently cook the garlic without burning.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and warmth.
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes: Forms the flavorful base of the sauce with natural sweetness and acidity.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances every flavor in the dish.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Provides subtle heat and balance.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a playful kick if you like a little spice.
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Brings that signature Mediterranean herbal note.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: Freshens up the sauce with its sweet, peppery aroma.
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed or torn: When baked, it melts into gooey, irresistible pockets of flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty finish and helps create a beautiful golden crust.
- Extra basil for garnish: For that vibrant, inviting look and an extra burst of aroma.
How to Make Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Choose your preferred short pasta—gnocchi, penne, or rigatoni all work brilliantly here. Cook the pasta until it is al dente, meaning it still has a wonderful bite without being mushy. Immediately drain and set aside to prepare for its cozy bath in rich tomato sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, warm up the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Sauté just until the garlic becomes fragrant—about one minute—to avoid any bitterness. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if you like a little zest, and dried oregano. Let this simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Add Fresh Basil and Combine
After simmering, stir in the chopped fresh basil for a bright, comforting aroma. Remove the sauce from heat, then mix the cooked pasta into the tomato mixture. Fold in half of the fresh mozzarella cubes so they start melting and blending into the pasta, setting up tender, cheesy layers inside the bake.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and pour in your pasta and sauce combination. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly on top, then finish with a generous layer of grated Parmesan. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, signaling that beautiful crust and gooey texture that make Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe so irresistible.
How to Serve Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe
Garnishes
Before serving, fresh basil leaves are a perfect garnish. They add a splash of color and that unmistakable fresh herbal note which elevates the whole dish. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also enhance the richness, making each bite even more luscious.
Side Dishes
This meal pairs wonderfully with a green salad dressed lightly with lemon and olive oil. Roasted seasonal vegetables or a crisp antipasto platter with olives and artichokes can also complement the hearty pasta bake without overpowering its delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve Pasta alla Sorrentina in individual ramekins, baked with a crisp cheese topping that is sure to wow guests. Alternatively, layering the pasta in a clear baking dish allows the beautiful colors and textures to shine through, making it as stunning as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the cheese from drying out. When ready to eat, the dish will still deliver the comforting melty sensation we all crave.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this recipe freezes nicely. Transfer the cooled pasta bake to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and freeze for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve the texture and flavors.
Reheating
To reheat, use a moderate oven temperature of 350°F (175°C), covering the dish with foil to keep it moist, and bake until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also reheat smaller portions in the microwave, but the oven method keeps the cheese beautifully melted and bubbly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional choices like gnocchi and penne work wonderfully, you can use rigatoni, ziti, or even small shells. The key is to use short pasta that holds the sauce well.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe is completely vegetarian. It relies on fresh, simple ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil without any meat products.
Can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the fresh mozzarella and Parmesan with plant-based cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor if you prefer.
What can I do to add more flavor to the sauce?
For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of red wine during the simmering stage or some sautéed onions along with the garlic. Fresh rosemary or thyme also complements the oregano beautifully.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead, keep it refrigerated, and bake when ready. Just add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe is a delightful invitation to experience the warmth and simplicity of Italian comfort food at its best. With its gooey cheese, vibrant tomato sauce, and herbaceous notes, it feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a quiet night in, give this recipe a try—you’ll soon see why it holds a special place in the hearts of pasta lovers everywhere.
Print
Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pasta alla Sorrentina is a comforting Italian dish from Sorrento featuring tender pasta baked with a rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, and fresh basil. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, with all the charm of southern Italian cooking.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz (340 g) short pasta like gnocchi, penne, or rigatoni
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Cheese and Garnish
- 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella, cubed or torn
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if using, and dried oregano. Simmer the sauce for 10 to 15 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add fresh basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil into the tomato sauce and remove the skillet from heat.
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
- Combine pasta and sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the tomato sauce. Gently fold in half of the fresh mozzarella cubes or torn pieces to distribute the cheese throughout.
- Assemble in baking dish: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly top the surface with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, garnish with extra fresh basil, and serve warm for a comforting Italian meal.
Notes
- Gnocchi is a traditional choice, but any short pasta such as penne or rigatoni works well.
- For extra richness and flavor, drizzle a little olive oil over the pasta before baking.
