Caprese pasta bake is an easy dump-and-bake summer recipe that the whole family will love! Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is so easy to throw together and perfect for a quick dinner, a picnic or for your packed lunch!
In a saucepan, boil water, salt it, then cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
As the pasta is being cooked, in a deep baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes, garlic drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 7-8 minutes or until the tomatoes start to pop (collapse). Do not switch off the oven.
Drain the pasta, and add it to the baking dish along with the baby spinach leaves and pesto. Toss to combine and return to the oven to bake for 3 more minutes.
Arrange the mozzarella pieces cheese on top, and bake for 3 more minutes or until the cheese is just melted. Remove from oven, season with cracked black pepper and chili flakes, fresh basil leaves, and serve.