Large tubes of pasta baked with tomato, mozzarella, and basil in Sorrento style. This vegetarian mediterranean dish is a fresh, comforting family meal that bubbles with melted cheese.
Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a large baking dish with 1 tbsp olive oil for even browning.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Cook paccheri pasta 2 minutes less than package instructions to keep them very al dente, then drain without rinsing.
Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned; immediately add tomatoes with juices, breaking them up with a spoon.
Simmer tomato sauce on medium-low for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with 1 tsp salt and black pepper. Stir in torn basil leaves at the end.
Toss the drained pasta gently with half of the tomato sauce and half the mozzarella cubes. Transfer to baking dish, layering remaining sauce and remaining mozzarella on top. Sprinkle evenly with Parmesan.
Bake uncovered 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted, golden-bubbly, and sauce is thickened. Let rest 5 minutes before serving for best texture.