Baked Cream Cheese Pasta is a dish that embodies comfort. Originating from the viral trend of baked feta pasta, this iteration replaces the feta with cream cheese to create a smoother, creamier sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. The magic happens in the oven: as the cream cheese warms, it becomes lusciously soft, while the grape or cherry tomatoes burst open, releasing their juices, which blend perfectly with the softened cheese. The result is a creamy, tomato-infused sauce that coats the pasta. The addition of fresh spinach and optional cooked chicken not only adds nutritional value but also provides a beautiful green contrast against the creamy sauce. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner, this recipe offers a seamless cooking experience with an outcome that seems elaborate and gourmet.
Ingredients about Baked Cream Cheese Pasta
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 2 pints grape/cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 8 oz. block of cream cheese
- 10 oz. dry pasta (of your choice; penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
- 8 oz. baby spinach
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon Italian spices (I like this Italian herb grinder from McCormick)
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- Optional:
- 1/4 teaspoon or more crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
- Pasta: Use a gluten-free variety if you need a gluten-free meal.
- Cream Cheese: A dairy-free cream cheese alternative can be used for those with lactose intolerance.
- Tomatoes: While grape or cherry tomatoes yield the best texture, you can substitute with plum tomatoes cut into quarters.
- Spinach: Kale or arugula can replace spinach for a different flavor profile.
- Chicken: Consider using grilled shrimp or mushrooms as a tasty vegetarian alternative.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Pasta Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dish for Baking
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating, take your block of cream cheese and place it in the center of a baking dish. Arrange the grape or cherry tomatoes around the block, ensuring they cover the bottom of the dish. This setup ensures that the warming cheese plenty mingles with the juices released by the tomatoes.
Step 2: Season the Ingredients
Drizzle the entire arrangement with the extra-virgin olive oil. This will help in softening the cream cheese and roasting the tomatoes to perfection. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt and pepper over the cream cheese and tomatoes for seasoning. Toss in the Italian spices, ensuring they are evenly distributed over the tomatoes and cheese block. If you enjoy a bit of spice, you can also add the optional crushed red pepper flakes at this stage.
Step 3: Bake the Cream Cheese and Tomatoes
Place the seasoned baking dish in the preheated oven and bake it for 30 to 35 minutes. During this time, the tomatoes will start to shrivel and release their sweet juices, while the cream cheese will become soft and creamy. The combination of heat, herbs, and ingredients creates a flavorful base for your pasta dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Pasta
While the baking dish is in the oven, boil your pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked al dente, reserve one cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Return the drained pasta to the pot and add in the fresh spinach. Stir the spinach into the warm pasta until it starts to wilt. If you’re using the optional pre-cooked chicken at this point, mix it in as well to allow flavors to meld.
Step 5: Combine with Baked Ingredients
Once the baking dish is out of the oven, carefully pour the tomato and cream cheese mixture into the pot of pasta. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta and distribute the ingredients evenly. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a quarter cup at a time, until your desired level of creaminess is achieved.
Step 6: Final Touches
Taste the pasta and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes as desired. For an extra layer of freshness, garnish the served dish with sliced fresh basil.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Pasta
Best Ways to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Pasta
Baked Cream Cheese Pasta shines most brilliantly when served immediately, delighting with its piping hot texture and fresh aroma. Serving it straight from the pot to your plate will ensure you capture all the flavors at their peak.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
For a complete Italian-inspired meal, pair this dish with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette and a side of garlic bread. A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, will beautifully complement the creamy pasta, offering a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness.
How to Store Baked Cream Cheese Pasta
Proper Storage Methods
If you have leftovers, store the Baked Cream Cheese Pasta in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can be kept fresh for up to three days.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
To reheat, place the leftover pasta in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or extra pasta sauce to maintain the creaminess, and stir until heated through. While freezing is possible, note that the cream cheese may slightly alter in texture once thawed and reheated. For best results, consume it fresh or refrigerated within a couple of days.
Tips to Make Baked Cream Cheese Pasta
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Tomatoes: Baking them for too long can lead to tomatoes disintegrating entirely. Bake just until they start to burst and release their juices.
- Not Reserving Pasta Water: It’s crucial for adjusting the sauce’s consistency after combining ingredients.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
- Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes add to the dish’s overall sweetness and flavor.
- Cream Cheese Temperature: Allow the cream cheese to reach room temperature for quicker melting and smoother mixing in the oven.
Variation of Baked Cream Cheese Pasta
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
- Add Pesto: Incorporate a few tablespoons of pesto when mixing the pasta with the cream cheese mixture for a fragrant basil kick.
- Cheesy Top Lattice: Before baking, scatter shredded Parmesan or mozzarella over the top for an added layer of gooey cheese.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
- Vegan Version: Use a plant-based cream cheese and incorporate nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Low-Carb: Swap the pasta with spiralized zucchini or other vegetable noodles for a lighter dish.
FAQs
What Can I Do if the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?
If your dish seems too thick, incorporate more reserved pasta water or a splash of milk/cream to achieve the desired creaminess. Taste as you adjust, seasoning accordingly.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can prep components ahead by baking the cheese and tomatoes earlier and refrigerating them. Reheat while boiling fresh pasta, then combine.
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?
If you’re out of cream cheese, one alternative is to use ricotta for a different texture. For non-dairy requirements, coconut cream can sometimes provide a creamy texture if dairy alternatives are unavailable.
