Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce

Name: Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 250g penne pasta; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making this Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce for special occasions. The combination of al dente pasta, rich cream, and a hint of garlic creates a warm and welcoming dish that brings everyone together. It's also versatile enough to adapt to your favorite ingredients. Each cheesy, mouthwatering bite is a celebration of flavors that make my heart sing, whether we're enjoying a cozy dinner at home or hosting friends on Valentine's Day.

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:22:08.418Z

When I first decided to create this Valentine Pasta Bake, I wanted something that felt special yet didn't require hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce is made with just a few simple ingredients, allowing the flavors to shine through. My secret is to add a touch of nutmeg to the cream, which elevates the entire dish and brings warmth to the palate.

As we tried different variations, we found that adding fresh spinach not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds vibrant color. Don't forget to let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving; it helps everything meld together for a truly delightful experience!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent cream sauce that's both rich and comforting
Colorful presentation with fresh vegetables
Great for sharing on romantic evenings or family gatherings

      

Cream Sauce Essentials

The cream sauce is the heart of this recipe, providing richness and depth of flavor. When preparing the sauce, keep your heat low to prevent the cream from scalding. Stir constantly as it thickens, aiming for a glossy consistency that coats the back of a spoon. The addition of nutmeg adds an aromatic warmth that complements the creamy base wonderfully.

Using freshly minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. It’s crucial to cook the garlic in the cream just until it becomes fragrant, which typically takes about a minute. Adding salt and pepper at this stage elevates the sauce, so taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. If you prefer a bit of a kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can be a delightful addition.

Perfecting the Pasta

Cooking the pasta until just al dente is vital to achieving the perfect texture in your bake. Follow the package instructions carefully, but start checking a minute or two early. The pasta will continue to cook in the oven, and you want it to hold its shape without becoming mushy. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; this can be a handy addition for adjusting the consistency of your sauce if needed.

Penne pasta works wonderfully in this dish due to its tubular shape, which holds the cream sauce beautifully. If you want to experiment, you can substitute with rigatoni or even whole grain pasta for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.

Customizing Your Bake

One of the best aspects of this Valentine Pasta Bake is its adaptability. Feel free to introduce a variety of vegetables, such as zucchini or artichokes, depending on your preference or seasonal availability. You can also swap the spinach for kale, which adds a different texture and nutrients. If you're not a fan of tomatoes, consider adding some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.

For a meatier option, cooked chicken or sautéed shrimp can be added to the pasta mixture before baking. Simply fold in about 1 to 1.5 cups of cooked meat right before assembling the dish to create a heartier meal. Additionally, for a touch of elegance, a sprinkle of grated mozzarella or feta cheese on top of the breadcrumbs before baking will create a delightful crust.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Pasta and Sauce

250g penne pasta
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced

Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before diving into the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious pasta bake:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, nutmeg, and salt and pepper. Heat over low heat, stirring until it begins to thicken.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped spinach, diced bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and cream sauce. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top of the pasta. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Valentine Pasta Bake!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked chicken or shrimp. A dash of chili flakes can provide a nice kick for those who enjoy some heat.

Storage Tips

If you plan on making this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the entire bake and store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, simply pop it into the oven, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time to account for the chill from the refrigerator. If you’d like to freeze it, let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and store it for up to three months.

To reheat frozen pasta bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 180°C (350°F) until heated through and bubbly, about 30 minutes. For best results, cover with foil for the first 20 minutes to prevent over-browning, then uncover to crisp up the top.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Valentine Pasta Bake with a light salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens will balance the richness of the cream sauce beautifully. A crusty baguette or garlic bread on the side makes for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

For special occasions, serve the pasta bake in individual ramekins for an appealing presentation. This not only adds an aesthetic element but also makes for easy serving. Consider garnishing with additional parsley or a drizzle of balsamic reduction just before serving for an elegant touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit any meat and load it up with more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead and just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this pasta bake?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this creamy pasta dish.