If you’re craving a soul-warming Italian dish that captures the charm of Sorrento, this Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe delivers everything you love about Italian comfort food — baked pasta, gooey mozzarella, and a rich tomato-basil sauce. Known for its comforting simplicity and bold Mediterranean flavors, this authentic Pasta alla Sorrentina brings the warmth of southern Italy straight to your table. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this classic Sorrentina pasta recipe never fails to impress.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Why You’ll Love This Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe
Rich Italian Flavor: Layers of sweet tomato sauce, basil, and melted mozzarella create an irresistible balance.
Cheesy & Comforting: Each bite offers creamy, stretchy cheese blended perfectly with al dente pasta.
Quick to Make: Ready in under 40 minutes — ideal for busy weeknights.
Fresh Ingredients: A burst of basil and garlic infuses a truly authentic Italian Pasta alla Sorrentina aroma.
Family Favorite: Simple, comforting, and crowd-pleasing for all ages.
Budget-Friendly: Minimal ingredients yet maximum flavor — pure Italian efficiency.
Baked to Perfection: That golden, bubbly cheese layer makes it feel restaurant-quality every time.
Taste of Sorrento: A true Neapolitan pasta recipe rooted in Southern Italian tradition.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the best Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe, along with substitutions and expert notes:
For the Pasta and Sauce
12 oz pasta (traditionally gnocchi or penne) – Penne gives structure, while gnocchi adds a soft, pillowy texture.
2 tbsp olive oil – Use extra virgin for deep Italian flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic warmth; avoid browning to prevent bitterness.
2 cups canned crushed tomatoes – San Marzano tomatoes are ideal for authentic Neapolitan sweetness.
½ tsp salt – Balances the acidity of tomatoes.
¼ tsp black pepper – Enhances depth.
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a mild heat for complexity.
½ tsp dried oregano – Provides earthy notes that complement basil.
½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped – Always add at the end for freshness.
For the Cheese Topping
8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed – The signature element of Pasta alla Sorrentina with mozzarella.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Brings nutty sharpness and a golden crust.
Substitutions:
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary variations.
Replace mozzarella with provolone for a smokier flavor twist.
How to Make Pasta alla Sorrentina (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook your pasta until al dente — about 8–10 minutes. This ensures the pasta holds its shape after baking. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and oregano.
Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens. You’ll notice a rich, slightly sweet aroma — that’s the sign of perfectly reduced Italian sauce.
Step 3: Add Fresh Basil and Pasta
Remove the sauce from heat, stir in chopped basil, then gently toss in the cooked pasta. The sauce should coat every piece evenly.
Step 4: Fold in Mozzarella
Add half the mozzarella cubes into the pasta mix. The heat will begin to soften the cheese slightly, creating creamy pockets of flavor.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer everything into a baking dish. Scatter the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle with grated Parmesan on top.
Broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden. Keep a close eye — this step transforms your baked Pasta alla Sorrentina into an unforgettable dish.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately while the cheese stretches beautifully — a moment worth savoring!
Pro Tips for Perfect Pasta alla Sorrentina
How do I make Pasta alla Sorrentina more flavorful?
Use high-quality tomatoes and fresh basil. For extra depth, add a teaspoon of butter or a splash of white wine during simmering.
Can I make Pasta alla Sorrentina ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
What pasta shape works best?
Traditionally gnocchi is used, but penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work beautifully to trap the sauce and cheese.
Best Ways to Serve This Sorrento-Style Pasta Recipe
Serve your Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe with:
Garlic bread or toasted ciabatta
A fresh Caprese salad
A glass of light Italian red wine
Nutrition (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 430 kcal | 22% |
| Protein | 18 g | 36% |
| Carbohydrates | 46 g | 15% |
| Fat | 18 g | 28% |
| Fiber | 4 g | 12% |
| Calcium | 180 mg | 14% |
| Sodium | 520 mg | 21% |
A perfectly balanced Italian baked pasta meal that satisfies without guilt.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze unbaked pasta mixture for up to 1 month.
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave gently until hot.
Pro tip: Add a splash of tomato sauce before reheating to revive freshness.
FAQs
Can I make this Pasta alla Sorrentina without baking it?
Yes. Simply heat the pasta and sauce together, add mozzarella cubes, and let them melt naturally for a softer version.
Is Pasta alla Sorrentina vegetarian?
Absolutely — it’s a vegetarian Italian pasta packed with flavor and protein from cheese.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes. Add cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef for a hearty twist — turning it into a classic Italian Sorrentina pasta bake with meat.
Variations
Low-Carb Version: Swap regular pasta with zucchini noodles.
Vegan Option: Use vegan mozzarella and skip Parmesan.
Spicy Sorrentina: Add more red pepper flakes or chili oil.
Neapolitan Style: Include a splash of fresh tomato passata for richer sauce.
Restaurant Style: Drizzle with truffle oil before serving.
Conclusion
The Pasta alla Sorrentina Recipe embodies everything people love about Italian cooking — simple ingredients, authentic flavors, and pure comfort. Each forkful brings the warmth of home, the aroma of fresh basil, and the satisfaction of gooey cheese. Serve it with love, share it with family, and savor the magic of Sorrento right at your dinner table.