Tomato, Basil and Cheese Baked Pasta

This is a Rachel Ray recipe from her 30 Minute Meals Show on Food Network.  I have made a couple of changes to the recipe to suit our tastes.  I am posting the recipe here with my changes.  This one of Rachel's recipe that truly can be made in 30 minutes.

Tomato, Basil and Cheese Baked Pasta

1/2 pound shell or other small shaped pasta
1 T extra-virgin olive oil
3 large cloves garlic, diced
1/2 small onion, chopped
1 14 oz. can fire roasted tomatoes
1 14 oz. can diced tomates with basil, garlic and oregano
salt and pepper to taste
1 c pesto sauce
2 c ricotta cheese
1/2 c grated Parmesan cheese
2 c grated Mozzarella cheese


Boil pasta in a large pot, cook until el dente.  Drain.

Heat olive oil in large skillet.  Saute garlic and onions until soft and onions are translucent.  Add both cans of tomatoes (do not drain).  Heat until bubbling, lower heat and continue to cook.  Season with salt and pepper to taste.

In a large bowl, mix pesto, ricotta and Parmesan cheese.  Add drained pasta and stir to coat.  Place in 11 x 7 baking dish sprayed with cooking spray.  Top with tomato sauce.  Top with grated Mozzarella and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Place under a heated broiler and broil for 5 - 6 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

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