Easy Pasta alla Sorrentina

Name: Easy Pasta alla Sorrentina
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (penne or rigatoni); 400g canned crushed tomatoes; 200g mozzarella cheese, diced; 50g grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

A delightful and comforting dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine right to your table.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-23T04:51:36.615Z

This Easy Pasta alla Sorrentina is a dish that combines the richness of tomato sauce with the creamy goodness of mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich tomato flavor complemented by melted mozzarella cheese
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Comfort food that everyone will enjoy

      

A Taste of Italy

Pasta alla Sorrentina is a classic Italian dish that embodies the vibrant flavors of Southern Italy. Originating from the coastal town of Sorrento, this recipe combines simple yet high-quality ingredients to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich tomato sauce, aromatic garlic, and melted mozzarella come together to form a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.

What sets this pasta recipe apart is its ability to bring people together around the dining table. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, Pasta alla Sorrentina is sure to impress. Its delightful aroma will have everyone eagerly anticipating the first bite.

Cooking Tips and Variations

For the best results, use high-quality canned crushed tomatoes. San Marzano tomatoes are often recommended due to their sweetness and low acidity, which pair beautifully with the other ingredients. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers.

Feel free to customize this dish according to your preferences. You can add cooked vegetables such as spinach or zucchini for a nutritional boost, or incorporate proteins like cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier meal. The recipe is flexible, allowing you to make it your own while still enjoying its authentic essence.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, Pasta alla Sorrentina can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, and you’ll enjoy the delightful flavors once more.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, ensuring you always have a comforting meal on hand.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process.

Ingredients

300g pasta (penne or rigatoni)
400g canned crushed tomatoes
200g mozzarella cheese, diced
50g grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a delicious outcome.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Stir the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring it's well coated. Add the diced mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese, mixing gently.

Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Pasta alla Sorrentina!

Nutritional Benefits

Pasta alla Sorrentina is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits. Whole-grain pasta can be a great source of fiber, which is essential for digestive health. The tomatoes provide antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to various health benefits, including reduced risk of chronic diseases.

Adding fresh basil not only enhances the flavor but also contributes vitamins and antioxidants. This dish can be a balanced meal when paired with a side salad, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to pairing drinks with Pasta alla Sorrentina, a light red wine such as Chianti or a white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the dish beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing herbal iced tea can be delightful.

For sides, consider serving a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf can also be a perfect addition, allowing you to savor every last bit of the flavorful sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used for a healthier option.

→ What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?

You can use any cheese that melts well, such as provolone or fontina.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and sauce separately and combine them before baking.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the baked pasta for up to three months. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.