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Welcome to the world of culinary creativity with the Easy Neapolitan Cake Pasta Bake, a delightful fusion dish that masterfully blends the comforting heartiness of pasta with the sweet and creamy elements typically reserved for dessert. This unique recipe is an exciting departure from traditional pasta bakes, offering a playful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to intrigue and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you're planning a family dinner, a potluck gathering, or simply a cozy night in, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

Easy Neapolitan Cake Pasta Bake

Discover the delightful fusion of flavors with the Easy Neapolitan Cake Pasta Bake, a unique dish that blends hearty pasta with sweet, creamy elements. This recipe invites culinary creativity, showcasing layers of penne pasta, a rich cheese blend, and a mix of strawberries, bananas, and walnuts. Perfect for any occasion, this pasta bake provides a comforting yet innovative dining experience that will impress family and friends. Gather your ingredients and embark on this flavorful adventure today!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

1 cup (240g) ricotta cheese

1 cup (240g) marinara sauce

1 cup (240g) fresh mozzarella cheese, diced

1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup (75g) granulated sugar

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

1 cup (240g) fresh strawberries, diced

1 cup (240g) ripe bananas, sliced

1 cup (240g) walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp ground cinnamon

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until just al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside in a large mixing bowl.

    Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the mixture together until it's smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.

      Layer the Ingredients: In a generously greased large baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. Place half of the cooked penne on top of the sauce, followed by half of the prepared ricotta mixture. Sprinkle half of the diced mozzarella cheese over the cheese layer.

        Incorporate Fruits and Nuts: Scatter half of the sliced bananas, diced strawberries, and half of the toasted chopped walnuts on top to enhance the flavor profile and add texture.

          Repeat the Layers: Continuously build your bake by pouring over the remaining marinara sauce, then adding the rest of the penne pasta, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture and mozzarella cheese. Finish this layer with the remaining banana slices, strawberries, and walnuts on top.

            Make the Cream Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the heavy cream gently. Stir in the ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt, mixing well. Once warmed, pour the cream mixture evenly over the layered pasta in the baking dish.

              Finish with Parmesan: Generously sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of your pasta bake to create a deliciously golden and crispy crust once baked.

                Bake the Pasta Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pasta for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the top is beautifully golden.

                  Garnish and Serve: Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. To serve, garnish with fresh basil leaves, which will not only beautify the dish but add a fragrant element to the flavor.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                      - Prep Time: 20 minutes

                        - Total Time: 1 hour

                          - Servings: 6 servings

                            Presentation Tips:

                              Serve individual portions of the pasta bake in shallow bowls, topped with a fresh basil leaf and an additional drizzle of marinara sauce for an added touch of color and flavor. Enjoy this delightful fusion of savory and sweet in each bite!