Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce

Name: Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cream cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love creating dishes that not only taste incredible but also bring a feeling of warmth and togetherness, especially on special occasions. This Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce does just that! With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, it’s the perfect meal to enjoy with your loved one. The combination of pasta, cheese, and a rich sauce makes for a comforting dish that's sure to impress. Whether you're celebrating a romantic dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe will become a favorite in no time.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:31:10.819Z

When I first made this Valentine Pasta Bake, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The secret to a rich and creamy sauce is using a combination of cream cheese and grated Parmesan, which melt beautifully to coat the pasta. I love adding fresh herbs like basil and parsley at the end for brightness - it really elevates the dish!

Cooking the pasta just until al dente allows it to soak up the sauce while baking, creating a perfect texture that's not too mushy. Each bite is a delightful experience of creamy goodness, and I can't wait for you to try it. You'll find it’s a dish that brings everyone around the table with smiles!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that hugs every piece of pasta
Enhanced flavor with fresh herbs and spices
Perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion

      

Mastering the Cream Sauce

Creating the perfect cream sauce is all about balance. The combination of cream cheese and heavy cream gives a luxurious texture that clings lovingly to the pasta. For the best results, ensure you heat the mixture slowly over medium-low heat to avoid scorching the cream. Keep stirring until the sauce is glossy and smooth—this should take about 3-5 minutes. If it feels too thick, a splash of pasta water can help achieve the desired consistency without diluting the flavor.

Don’t hesitate to customize the flavor of the cream sauce based on your palate. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the dish with a hint of brightness. For those who prefer a kick, a dash of red pepper flakes can provide a subtle heat. Remember, taste as you go; this sauce is a canvas for your creativity!

Garnishing for Impact

While the dish is delicious on its own, a beautiful garnish can enhance presentation and flavor. Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also a fragrant aroma that complements the creamy sauce. To prepare your basil, I recommend tearing the leaves rather than chopping them to release more of their essential oils. Sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan on top just before serving gives an extra layer of richness and an inviting look.

For an added touch, consider pairing your pasta bake with a light side salad dressed in a balsamic vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing will contrast nicely with the creaminess of the pasta, making each bite thoroughly enjoyable. This balance will elevate your meal from simply filling to truly memorable.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started with your delightful Valentine Pasta Bake!

Ingredients

200g pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cream cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

With all your ingredients ready, you're set to make a delicious pasta bake!

Instructions

Let’s dive into the cooking process to make this delicious dish!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cream Sauce

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Reduce heat and mix in the cream cheese, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan until creamy and smooth.

Stir in the dried Italian herbs, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the cream sauce. Mix well until the pasta is coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, or until bubbling and golden on top.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your Valentine Pasta Bake!

Enjoy your delicious dish with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking. This will give the pasta bake a wonderful texture!

Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

The pasta shape can greatly affect your dish's texture and flavor absorption in the bake. While penne and fusilli are ideal, feel free to experiment with other shapes like rigatoni or shells, which can hold the sauce beautifully. Just ensure to cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to bake in the oven and absorb some of the sauce's moisture.

If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or a non-dairy alternative. While this change will alter the texture slightly, it can make for a delicious variation especially if paired with vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast for added flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Valentine Pasta Bake can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, which is particularly convenient for special occasions. Simply follow all the steps until the baking phase, cover the dish tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. You may need to increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes if it goes in cold.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to prevent the pasta from drying out. Warm it in the oven at around 160°C (320°F) until heated through, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to promote even heating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it consists of pasta and creamy cheese sauce.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake a day ahead. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with this pasta bake?

A light salad or some garlic bread would pair perfectly with this creamy dish.