Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce

I love creating cozy, romantic dinners, and my Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce never disappoints. This dish holds a special place in my heart, combining tender pasta and a rich, velvety cream sauce that wraps around each bite. The beauty of this recipe is how simple the ingredients are, yet the flavor is elevated with a touch of garlic and Parmesan cheese. Whether it's a special date night or just a comforting weeknight meal, this pasta bake brings warmth and joy to the table.

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:58:07.786Z

When I first made this dish, I wanted something that felt special without being overly complicated. I was thrilled to discover how the cream sauce complemented the pasta so beautifully. Using a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, I achieved that gooey, dreamy consistency that everyone loves in a pasta bake.

One of my favorite tips is to bake it until the top is bubbly and golden brown. This adds a delightful crispy texture that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling. It’s truly a dish that can make any ordinary evening feel like a celebration!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and dreamy sauce that envelops the pasta perfectly
Rich flavors from garlic and cheese enhance every bite
Easily adaptable to include your favorite veggies or proteins

      

Deliciously Creamy Sauce

The cream sauce is the star of the dish, lending a luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with the penne. Heavy cream is crucial here, as it provides a rich mouthfeel that lighter alternatives like milk simply cannot replicate. When heating the cream, be careful not to bring it to a boil. Instead, heat it gently over medium heat until it starts to simmer; this helps prevent curdling and ensures a smooth finish.

Adding the minced garlic at this stage infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor. I recommend sautéing it just until fragrant, about one minute, before incorporating the cheeses. This step is key to achieving that balanced, savory taste that will elevate the entire pasta bake. The mozzarella adds a stretchy quality, while the Parmesan contributes a sharp, salty kick that rounds out the flavor profile perfectly.

Ingredient Adaptations

One of the remarkable features of the Valentine Pasta Bake is its adaptability. You can easily incorporate your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. If using fresh vegetables, sauté them in a bit of olive oil for a few minutes to soften before mixing them into the pasta. This not only adds color but also enhances the nutritional value, making it even more comforting and wholesome.

If you want to add protein to this dish, cooked chicken, shrimp, or even a plant-based alternative can be fantastic additions. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you're adding pre-cooked meat to ensure everything is heated through without drying out. For a lovely twist, try adding a touch of nutmeg to the sauce for warmth and depth of flavor, making this dish even more special.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on making your Valentine Pasta Bake:

For the Pasta Bake

8 ounces penne pasta
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you begin cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delightful pasta bake:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until heated through, then add in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.

Combine and Bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and cream sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Garnish and Serve

After taking it out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your meal warm and share it with someone special!

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cooked chicken into the pasta mixture before baking.

Make-Ahead Tips

This pasta bake can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy weeknights or romantic dinner planning. After assembling the dish, cover it with aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the foil and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time, ensuring the center is piping hot. This means you can enjoy a homemade meal without all the last-minute preparation stress.

If you want to freeze the bake for later, assemble it as directed but avoid baking it first. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight, and bake following the original instructions for best results.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal truly special, serve the pasta bake alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing will cut through the creaminess of the dish, providing a nice balance of flavors. Crusty garlic bread is another great option for those who want a hearty accompaniment. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover cream sauce.

For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing the dish with freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, which complements the richness of the sauce beautifully. Not only does this elevate the dining experience, but it also adds visual appeal that makes this bake look as enticing as it tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative and adds extra fiber.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a lower-fat cheese option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can this dish be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Cover tightly and reheat directly from the freezer, adding extra time if needed.