Creamy Caprese Pasta

This is another form of Pasta Al Forno, but with much simpler and fresher ingredients.  The combination of fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, and fresh tomatoes is heaven to me.  One reason I really love this recipe is there is NO added salt or seasoning so you get to taste all the great flavors that blend so well together.  To me this is just a great comforting meal.  Serve it with some crusty bread or a nice side salad and you are good to go!

My inspiration came from the recipe found HERE.

Creamy Caprese Pasta
1 box of penne noodles
1 cup of pasta sauce or any other that you prefer
1/3 cup half and half
1/3 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
8 oz package of mozzarella pearls
1 pint of grape tomatoes (I halved the very large ones)
5-6 fresh basil chiffonade, check out this video HERE on how to do the chiffonade technique

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and prepare pasta as directed on package
• While pasta is cooking heat the pasta sauce over medium-low heat
• When it is warm add the half and half and parmesan cheese.  Stir well and continue to cook.

• When pasta is done, drain, and add to sauce.  Mix and coat well and remove from heat
• Fold in half the mozzarella, all the tomatoes, and about 3/4 of the basil
• Transfer to a prepared baking dish (either non-stick or spray with non-stick cooking spray)
• Top with the remaining mozzarella

• Bake for 20-25 minutes or when the mozzarella is melted and beginning to brown

Top with additional parmesan cheese and the rest of the fresh basil chiffonade.  YUM!  So simple, fresh and delicious.  Everyone loved it and I think the next time I will add some fresh garlic to mimic my all time favorite pizza :)  

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