🧄🍅🥖 The Ultimate Comfort Food Just Got an Upgrade!
You know those recipes that make you stop mid-scroll and think, “Oh my gosh, I NEED to make that”? This Cheesy Tomato Pasta in a Bread Bowl is that recipe. Creamy ricotta-tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, a golden, garlicky bread bowl, and the grand finale—fresh burrata on top. It’s cozy, cheesy, carby heaven!
Whether you’re planning a chill weeknight dinner or just want to treat yourself (because you totally deserve it), this one is going to impress—no plate required. Let’s get into the deets!
🍝 Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Pasta in a Bread Bowl
- ✅ One-pan creamy tomato sauce with buttery garlic, ricotta, and melty cheese
- ✅ Edible bowl! Because who doesn’t love pasta served inside toasty, garlicky bread?
- ✅ Customizable: Make it spicy, add basil, or swap the cheese—this recipe is super flexible
- ✅ Ready in under 30 minutes (but looks gourmet AF)
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything to grab from your pantry or fridge:
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- ½ lb of pasta (rigatoni, penne, or shells all work great)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Reserved pasta water (about ¼ cup)
For the Bread Bowl:
- 1 small round bread loaf (like sourdough or ciabatta boule)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Garlic powder, parsley, salt
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional:
- 1 ball of burrata (for topping!)
- Fresh basil or chili flakes
🔥 Let’s Get Cooking!
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until just al dente. Don’t forget to scoop out ¼ cup of pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for your sauce.
Step 2: Make That Creamy Tomato Sauce
In a large pan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and let it cook until fragrant (about 1 min).
Now stir in the tomato paste and tomato sauce. Let it all blend for a minute, then pour in the heavy cream and stir.
Add in the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan—plus your seasoning mix: salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes a creamy dream.
Step 3: Combine Pasta + Sauce
Toss your cooked pasta straight into the sauce. Add a splash of that reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat every bite. Give everything a good stir until it’s silky and luscious.
Step 4: Prep Your Bread Bowls
Cut the top off your bread loaf and carefully hollow out the center (save the inside for croutons or breadcrumbs!).
In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder, parsley, salt, and Parmesan cheese. Brush this garlic butter mix all over the inside and edges of your bread bowl.
Step 5: Assemble + Bake (Optional)
Scoop the creamy tomato pasta into the bread bowl. You can:
- Serve it as is (like I did!), or
- Pop it in the oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes to get the cheese bubbly and the bread extra toasty
Top with that beautiful burrata, fresh herbs, and more Parm. Now try not to faint from joy. 🤤
🧠 Tips for Pasta Bread Bowl Success
- Choose a sturdy bread: A crusty round loaf (boule) holds the sauce better without getting soggy
- Don’t overcook the pasta: You want it firm enough to hold its shape inside the bread
- Add protein: Stir in some grilled chicken, sausage, or chickpeas for extra oomph
- Burrata tip: Let it sit at room temp before topping—it melts beautifully over warm pasta
🤔 FAQ Corner
Can I use another cheese instead of burrata?
Absolutely! Try a scoop of ricotta or a dollop of creamy mozzarella. Even whipped feta could be delicious.
How do I store leftovers?
Pasta can be stored in an airtight container for 2–3 days. But the bread bowl? Best enjoyed fresh, or toasted separately the next day.
What’s the best pasta shape for this?
Short pastas like penne, rigatoni, or shells are ideal because they hold onto that creamy sauce and nestle perfectly into the bread.
🧡 Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Tomato Pasta in a Bread Bowl isn’t just food—it’s an edible hug. The combo of cozy tomato cream, garlicky cheese-stuffed carbs, and melty burrata on top is chef’s kiss. Perfect for dinner parties, date night, or just treating yourself because, why not?
Save this one for when you need something extra special, ultra comforting, and ridiculously delicious. You riGOTTA make it!