Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce

Name: Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 8 oz heart-shaped pasta; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making this Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce for special occasions. The combination of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and perfectly baked cheese always warms my heart and fills the room with irresistible aromas. It’s a wonderful dish to share with loved ones, and the colorful ingredients make it even more tempting. Plus, I find that preparing this dish together with someone else is a delightful way to spend time in the kitchen, creating both a meal and memories that will linger long after the dishes are done.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:34:14.710Z

When I first experimented with this pasta bake, it was during a cozy Valentine’s dinner at home. I wanted to create something that epitomized comfort while being elegant enough for a special occasion. The combination of a smooth, creamy sauce and the crunch from the baked cheese topping creates a harmony that I believe everyone will fall in love with.

One of my favorite tips is to use a mix of cheeses. I like to blend mozzarella for its stretchiness and parmesan for its sharpness. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the dish a decadent finish when it bubbles away in the oven. Don't forget to top it off with fresh herbs for that final touch!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent creamy sauce with a hint of garlic
Heart-shaped pasta for a romantic touch
Cheesy crust that everyone will crave

      

The Role of Pasta in This Bake

Using heart-shaped pasta introduces a whimsical and romantic element to the dish, perfect for a Valentine’s celebration. When cooking the pasta, make sure to check for doneness a minute or two before the package instructions recommend, as you want it slightly al dente. This texture helps the pasta hold up during baking, ensuring it won’t become mushy when combined with the creamy sauce.

If heart-shaped pasta is unavailable, you can opt for other fun shapes like bowties or fusilli. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly. Avoid overcooking the pasta, as the baking process further softens it, allowing it to absorb flavors from the sauce.

Creating the Perfect Cream Sauce

The cream sauce is the heart of this dish, providing richness and coating the pasta beautifully. Sautéing the garlic until fragrant, roughly 30 seconds to a minute, is essential to release its flavor without burning it. Keep an eye on the heat; if you notice any browning, reduce it immediately to avoid bitterness.

When adding the heavy cream, stir continuously to prevent it from scalding. Bringing it to a simmer, rather than a full boil, maintains the sauce’s luscious texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the cream with whole milk, though it will alter the richness slightly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this delightful pasta bake:

Pasta and Cheese

8 oz heart-shaped pasta
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Cream Sauce

2 cups heavy cream
1 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to mix everything well to ensure it's evenly coated with the sauce!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Valentine Pasta Bake:

Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the heart-shaped pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Lower the heat, add heavy cream, and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the cream sauce and stir until evenly coated. Mix in half of the mozzarella and parmesan.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, top with the remaining cheese, and bake for 20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burns!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also give your dish a nice kick!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you’re planning ahead, this pasta bake can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish with foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes it an excellent option for gatherings, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones instead of in the kitchen.

To reheat leftovers, simply cover the dish with foil to prevent the cheese from burning and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but keep an eye on it to avoid uneven heating.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize your Valentine Pasta Bake further by adding sautéed veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition. You can also incorporate cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein, making the dish even heartier.

For a little more flavor depth, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce for a subtle heat or a splash of white wine during the sautéing step. This will elevate the overall flavor profile and add complexity to the creamy base.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular pasta instead of heart-shaped?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work; just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly since it features cream and cheese, but you can incorporate more vegetables for added nutrition!

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I serve with this pasta bake?

A light green salad and some crusty bread would complement this dish beautifully!