This simple pasta recipe is my go-to for quick, comforting lunches or dinners. With just a few ingredients and barely any prep, it brings rich, cheesy indulgence to the table in no time. Even better, it's incredibly versatile. Feel free to add minced garlic for a flavour boost, sprinkle crispy pancetta or crumbled bacon over the top, toss in sauteed mushrooms or seasonal veg, or bulk it out with grilled chicken for extra protein. However you make it your own, this pasta bake is sure to become a staple.

Creamy Pasta Bake

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | 4 servings 

Ingredients: 

• 225g (8oz) dried penne pasta 
  
• 300ml (1 1/4 cups) double cream (heavy cream)
• 85g (3oz) Parmigiano-Reggiano, freshly grated (about 1 generous cup), plus 2 tbsp for topping 
  
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
• Ground white pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• Fresh basil, shaved or thinly sliced, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 260°C / 500°F. 

2. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook just shy of al dente, about 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain well.

3. While the pasta cooks, mix the double cream, 1 cup of the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, 1/4 tsp salt, and a pinch of ground white pepper in a large mixing bowl. 

4. Toss the hot drained pasta with the cream mixture until well-coated. Transfer the mixture into a shallow ceramic or oven safe gratin dish.

5. Sprinkle with the remaining 2 tbsp of cheese and dot with cubed butter.

6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until bubbly and the edges start to lightly brown. Be careful not to overbake; the sauce should remain silky and not separate.

7. Let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh shaved basil for a burst of colour and flavour, if using.

Hints & Tips

Leftovers - Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Make Ahead - Assemble the pasta dish up to the baking stage, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up 24 hours. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-7 minutes if needed.

Freezing - This pasta can be frozen before baking. Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container, cover well, and freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.