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Introducing the Easy Neapolitan Cake Pasta Bake—a delightful fusion of flavors that marries the comfort of pasta with the sweetness of dessert. This innovative recipe takes traditional elements of Italian cuisine and transforms them into a unique dish that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Imagine tender penne pasta enveloped in a creamy ricotta mixture, complemented by fresh fruits and a hint of cinnamon, all mingling together under a rich marinara sauce. To top it off, a generous layer of gooey mozzarella and a dusting of Parmesan create an irresistible golden crust.

Easy Neapolitan Cake Pasta Bake

Discover the deliciously innovative Easy Neapolitan Cake Pasta Bake, where savory and sweet come together in perfect harmony. This unique dish features tender penne pasta enveloped in creamy ricotta, layered with fresh fruits and topped with a luscious marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and crispy Parmesan. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this unforgettable bake is not only easy to prepare but also a true crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
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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) sugar

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

1 cup (240g) strawberries, diced

1 cup (240g) bananas, sliced

1 cup (240g) walnuts, toasted and chopped

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp cinnamon

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

    Make the Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.

      Layer the Ingredients: In a large baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked penne, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Top with half of the diced mozzarella.

        Add Fruits and Nuts: Distribute half of the sliced bananas, diced strawberries, and half of the chopped walnuts over the cheesy layers.

          Repeat the Layers: Pour the remaining marinara sauce, then add the remaining penne, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Top with the remaining banana slices, strawberries, and walnuts.

            Prepare the Cream Sauce: In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium-low heat. Stir in cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Pour this cream mixture evenly over the layered pasta in the baking dish.

              Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for a delicious golden finish.

                Bake the Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pasta bake for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

                  Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving to enhance flavor.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr | 6 servings