Creamy Pasta Bake With Cherry Tomatoes And Basil Recipe

Ingredients

Pantry Staples

In order to prepare a Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil, it’s necessary to have certain Pantry Staples available in your kitchen.

The foundation of this dish begins with quality pasta, preferably made from durum wheat semolina, which gives the baked pasta its creamy texture when cooked.

A blend of all-purpose flour and butter or oil serves as the base for a rich, smooth sauce. The inclusion of heavy cream elevates the flavor while adding an inviting aroma.

Adding depth to the dish is achieved by incorporating parmesan cheese, which not only enhances the flavors but also helps in thickening the sauce.

Pantry staples like salt and black pepper are used to season the dish, as they bring out the best flavors from all the ingredients. Fresh herbs like basil add a fresh taste while cherry tomatoes contribute sweetness and juiciness.

* 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)

The creaminess and flavor of this dish come from a combination of ingredients, which include high-quality pasta as the base, along with complementary flavors that add depth to each bite.

First and foremost, the choice of pasta is crucial in creating the perfect Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil. The pasta of your choice, such as penne or fusilli, serves as the foundation for this dish, providing a satisfying texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce and fresh flavors.

The pasta itself should be chosen based on personal preference, but some options work better than others in this recipe. For example, shorter shapes like penne or shells can hold onto the creamy sauce more effectively, while longer shapes like fusilli or spaghetti may require a bit more effort to coat evenly.

In addition to the pasta, several other key ingredients contribute to the overall flavor and texture of this dish. Cherry tomatoes add natural sweetness and a burst of freshness, while fresh basil brings an herbaceous and aromatic quality that complements the creamy sauce.

The sauce itself is typically made with a combination of heavy cream or half-and-half, grated Parmesan cheese, and a bit of butter for richness and depth of flavor. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients like garlic, onion, or dried herbs to add extra flavor.

Finally, the assembly of the pasta bake involves combining cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil in a baking dish, topping with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of cream sauce before baking until golden brown and bubbly.

The combination of creamy sauce, al dente pasta, and fresh flavors makes for a truly satisfying and delicious Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Parmesan cheese is a crucial ingredient in this Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe, adding a salty, nutty flavor to the dish.

The 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese specified in the recipe contributes significantly to the overall taste profile of the pasta bake, making it an essential component of the recipe.

Grated Parmesan cheese is used instead of other forms of cheese like shredded or sliced because its fine texture allows it to melt evenly and distribute throughout the dish.

The high melting point of Parmesan cheese helps it retain its shape and structure even when heated, preventing it from becoming too soft or runny.

When combined with the creamy bechamel sauce, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, the Parmesan cheese creates a rich, satisfying flavor experience that elevates the dish to a whole new level.

The nutty, slightly sweet flavor of Parmesan cheese pairs particularly well with the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes and the freshness of the basil, creating a harmonious balance of flavors in each bite.

* 1/4 cup allpurpose flour

All-purpose flour is a type of wheat flour that is commonly used in baking and cooking. It is called “all-purpose” because it can be used to make a wide variety of products, from cakes and cookies to breads and pasta dishes.

In the context of the Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe, the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour serves as a thickening agent. When mixed with fat (such as butter or oil) and liquid (such as cream or milk), it helps to create a smooth and creamy sauce.

All-purpose flour is made from wheat that has been ground into a fine powder. This process, known as milling, breaks down the gluten strands in the wheat, resulting in a soft and pliable texture. The resulting flour can be used immediately, or stored for later use in a cool, dry place.

When selecting all-purpose flour, it is worth noting that different brands may have slightly varying textures and flavors due to differences in wheat varieties and processing methods. However, the 1/4 cup of flour called for in this recipe will work well with most types of all-purpose flour available in stores.

The use of all-purpose flour in baking and cooking is widespread because it has a neutral flavor and can be used to create a wide range of textures, from light and delicate to heavy and dense. In the Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe, the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour helps to thicken the sauce without adding excess calories or changing its overall flavor profile.

When incorporating all-purpose flour into a recipe like this one, it is worth noting that the type of fat used can impact the final texture of the sauce. For example, using butter may result in a richer and creamier sauce than using oil.

* Salt and pepper to taste

The phrase “salt and pepper to taste” is a common instruction found in many recipes, including the Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe.

Salt and pepper are two of the most essential seasonings used in cooking, and they play a crucial role in bringing out the flavors of various ingredients. In this context, salt and pepper to taste means that you should add the right amount of these seasonings according to your personal preference.

What is Salt?

Salt, also known as sodium chloride, is a crystalline mineral composed of sodium and chlorine. It’s used not only as a seasoning but also for preserving food by drawing out moisture. Salt helps to enhance the flavor of dishes, particularly when combined with other ingredients.

Types of Salt:

There are various types of salt available, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. Some common types of salt include:

• Table Salt: This is the most commonly used salt in cooking and comes in a fine, white crystal form.
• Salt Flakes or Maldon Salt: A coarser, flakier type of salt often used to add texture to dishes.
• Kosher Salt: A coarse-grained salt with a milder flavor than table salt.

What is Pepper?

Paper, or Piper nigrum, is the dried, unripe fruit of a flowering plant. It’s used as a spice and seasoning to add heat and depth to various dishes. Peppercorns are often ground into pepper, which is commonly found in most households.

Types of Pepper:

There are several types of peppercorns available, each with its own distinct flavor profile and usage:

• Black Peppercorns: The most common type of peppercorn, which is made from the unripe fruit.
• White Peppercorns: Made by soaking black peppercorns in water or brine to remove their skin and reveal a white interior.
• Green Peppercorns: Young, unripe peppercorns that are often pickled in vinegar or used whole.

In the context of the Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe, salt and pepper to taste means that you should add a pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper according to your personal preference. This will enhance the flavors of the dish without overpowering them.

Fresh Produce

The Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe highlights the importance of fresh produce in cooking. Fresh produce adds flavor, texture, and nutrients to a dish, making it a crucial ingredient in any recipe.

For this recipe, some essential ingredients include:

• Cherry Tomatoes

• Basil

• Fresh Parsley

• Olive Oil

• Garlic

• Onion

Cherry tomatoes are a key component of the dish, providing a burst of juicy sweetness in each bite. They can be used as is or halved for added visual appeal.

Basil adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the pasta bake, complementing the creaminess of the sauce. It’s essential to use high-quality fresh basil leaves for the best results.

Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, making it visually appealing. It can be used as a garnish or added to the pasta along with the other ingredients.

Olive oil is used for cooking the garlic and onion, adding depth and richness to the sauce. Choose a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.

Garlic and onion add a punch of flavor to the dish, sautéing them in olive oil until softened brings out their natural sweetness.

Other ingredients like pasta, cream, cheese, and spices are also essential in this recipe. However, fresh produce takes center stage, adding an unparalleled level of flavor and nutrition to the creamy pasta bake.

* 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

The star ingredient of this delicious Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil recipe are, of course, the cherry tomatoes! You’ll need 2 cups of them, halved for a perfect combination of flavor and texture.

Cherry tomatoes are one of the sweetest and most versatile types of tomatoes out there. They’re small, round, and bursting with juicy sweetness. When halved, they retain their shape beautifully, adding a pop of color to your pasta bake.

The reason why cherry tomatoes work so well in this recipe is because of their natural acidity, which complements the creaminess of the sauce perfectly. Plus, their small size allows them to cook quickly and evenly, making them an ideal addition to this hearty pasta bake.

When choosing your cherry tomatoes, look for ones that are plump, firm, and have a vibrant red color. Avoid any that are soft or bruised, as they can be too ripe and won’t hold their shape as well during cooking.

It’s worth noting that you can also use other types of small tomatoes, such as grape tomatoes or baby tomatoes, in place of cherry tomatoes if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly depending on the variety you choose.

* 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

The 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves called for in this recipe is an essential ingredient that adds a burst of freshness and flavor to the creamy pasta bake. Fresh basil is typically used in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine, and it pairs perfectly with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the richness of cream.

Basil has a bright green color and a delicate, slightly spicy aroma. When choosing fresh basil leaves for this recipe, look for leaves that are vibrant and have no signs of wilting or discoloration. The best way to store fresh basil is in a cool, dry place, such as the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

The 1/4 cup measurement is equivalent to about 12-15 large leaves or 20-25 small leaves of fresh basil. You can also use basil sprigs or basil flowers for added flavor and texture. Simply chop or tear the leaves into smaller pieces before adding them to the recipe.

In this Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe, the fresh basil adds a depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. The basil’s slight bitterness balances out the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes and the richness of the cream, creating a harmonious and delicious flavor profile.

When preparing the basil for this recipe, make sure to chop or tear it into smaller pieces so that they distribute evenly throughout the pasta bake. You can also sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top of the pasta bake as a garnish before serving for added color and freshness.

Creamy Sauce and Baking

The Creamy Twist

The world of baking and cooking has been revolutionized by the addition of **Creamy Sauce**, a game-changer in the culinary industry. This delectable sauce has elevated dishes from mere mortals to divine creations, leaving everyone craving for more.

When it comes to incorporating _Creamy Sauce_ into baked goods, the possibilities are endless. From rich and decadent chocolate cakes to savory meatloafs, this sauce adds a depth of flavor that is unmatched by other ingredients.

In the context of pasta bakes, **Creamy Sauce** takes center stage alongside cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. This harmonious trio creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent, perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.

The beauty of _Creamy Sauce_ lies in its versatility. It can be used as a dip, a sauce for meats or vegetables, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it an ideal complement to a variety of dishes.

One of the most significant advantages of using **Creamy Sauce** in baking is that it adds moisture without sacrificing texture. This is particularly beneficial when working with delicate ingredients such as fish or chicken, which can dry out quickly if overcooked.

In the recipe for Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil, _Creamy Sauce_ plays a starring role alongside cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. The combination of these three flavors creates a dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing.

When preparing this recipe, it’s essential to balance the flavors carefully. This involves not only using high-quality ingredients but also adjusting the amount of _Creamy Sauce_ to suit your taste preferences. Too little sauce can result in a dry pasta bake, while too much can overpower the other flavors.

The final product is a dish that showcases the perfect harmony between creamy sauce, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. The creaminess of the sauce complements the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes and the brightness of the basil, creating a culinary masterpiece that will impress even the most discerning palates.

* 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Creamy sauces are an essential component of many baked dishes, particularly pasta bakes. When it comes to creating a creamy sauce for baking, there are several key considerations.

Firstly, the type of fat used can greatly impact the flavor and texture of the sauce. For this recipe, we’re using 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter as the base of our creamy sauce. Unsalted butter provides a neutral flavor that won’t compete with the other ingredients in the dish.

The use of butter instead of oil also contributes to the rich, velvety texture that’s characteristic of creamy sauces. As the sauce cooks and bakes, the butter will melt and emulsify with the other liquids, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.

When melting the butter, it’s essential to do so slowly over low heat or in the oven. This helps prevent the butter from separating or breaking down too quickly, which can result in an unpleasant texture.

Once the butter has melted, you can add any additional ingredients required for your creamy sauce. For this recipe, we’re using a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and dried basil. The Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor, while the heavy cream contributes to the overall richness of the sauce.

The key to creating a well-balanced creamy sauce is achieving the right ratio of dairy to fat. Too much dairy can result in a sauce that’s too thin or watery, while too little dairy may leave the sauce feeling greasy or unpleasantly rich.

As you’re combining the ingredients for your creamy sauce, be sure to taste and adjust as needed. This ensures that the flavors are well-balanced and the texture is just right.

In addition to using high-quality ingredients, there are a few general tips to keep in mind when baking with creamy sauces. Firstly, it’s essential to cook the pasta al dente before adding the sauce, as overcooked pasta can become mushy or unpleasantly textured when mixed with the sauce.

When mixing the cooked pasta and creamy sauce, be gentle to avoid breaking down the pasta fibers. This helps preserve the texture of the pasta and prevents it from becoming mushy or unappealing.

Finally, be sure to bake the dish at a moderate temperature (around 375°F) to ensure that the pasta cooks evenly and the sauce doesn’t become too hot or separated. By following these tips and using high-quality ingredients, you’ll be able to create a delicious and creamy pasta bake with cherry tomatoes and basil.

* 1 cup heavy cream

Creamy sauce plays a crucial role in many pasta recipes, including the Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil recipe. It adds richness, flavor, and moisture to the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser.

The use of heavy cream in this recipe is key to creating a creamy sauce. Heavy cream has a high fat content, which makes it ideal for thickening sauces and adding body to them. To use 1 cup of heavy cream in this recipe, you will need to heat it up in a saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer.

While the heavy cream is heating up, you can add some grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. The cheese will help thicken the sauce further, while the garlic powder adds a depth of flavor that complements the tomatoes and basil perfectly.

Once the sauce has thickened slightly, it’s time to add in the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. The sweetness of the tomatoes pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, creating a balanced flavor profile that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Baking the pasta dish is also an essential part of this recipe. By transferring the cream-infused pasta mixture into a baking dish and topping it with some additional mozzarella cheese and basil leaves, you’ll create a golden-brown crust on top that’s both crispy and satisfying.

The creamy sauce continues to bake in the oven, infusing the pasta with even more flavor and moisture as it cooks. When the timer goes off, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

With its perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and savory flavors, this Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. The use of heavy cream in this recipe is essential to creating a rich and satisfying sauce that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Whether you’re serving this dish at a dinner party or just enjoying it as a quick weeknight meal, the Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil recipe is sure to impress. The addition of fresh basil leaves adds a bright and refreshing note to the dish, making it perfect for springtime meals.

Overall, the combination of creamy sauce and baking in this recipe creates a truly special culinary experience that’s sure to delight even the pickiest eaters. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and let the rich flavors of cream and cheese transport you to a world of comfort food bliss!

* 1 tsp dried basil

This recipe for a Creamy Pasta Bake is a delightful combination of flavors, textures, and colors. The star of the dish is the creamy sauce that coats the pasta, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. Let’s take a closer look at the magic that happens when we combine these ingredients.

The Creamy Sauce in this recipe is made with a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese, butter, garlic, and heavy cream. The heavy cream provides a rich, velvety texture that coats each piece of pasta perfectly. To enhance the flavor of the sauce, we add 1 tsp dried basil, which adds an unmistakable taste of Italy to this dish.

The pasta used in this recipe is a classic choice – **Penne**. Penne’s tubular shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully and pairs perfectly with the cherry tomatoes. The cherry tomatoes add a burst of juicy sweetness to each bite, making every mouthful a delight.

Baking this dish in the oven brings out the best in the ingredients. The pasta becomes tender, the cheese is melted to perfection, and the flavors meld together in harmony. It’s an experience that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

This recipe makes 4-6 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a gathering of friends. You can adjust the amount of **cream** to your liking, depending on how rich you prefer the sauce. And don’t forget to sprinkle some extra basil leaves on top before serving – it adds an extra pop of color and flavor.

In summary, this Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil recipe is a treat for your taste buds. With its creamy sauce, delicious pasta, and fresh basil, it’s a dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy. Give it a try tonight!

* 1 tsp garlic powder

Creamy sauce plays a crucial role in the Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil recipe, serving as the binding agent that holds all the flavors together.

In this particular recipe, the creamy sauce is made by combining heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of spices. The addition of garlic powder adds an extra depth of flavor to the sauce, enhancing its overall richness and savory taste.

The process of making creamy sauces for baking involves heating up a mixture of milk or heavy cream with butter or oil until it thickens slightly. Then, various seasonings such as salt, pepper, and spices are added, along with grated cheese like Parmesan or mozzarella, to create a smooth and velvety consistency.

The key to achieving the perfect creamy sauce lies in whisking constantly while adding the dry ingredients to prevent lumps from forming. A pinch of salt also helps to enhance the flavors and balance out any sweetness.

In addition to its functional role in binding the pasta, cherry tomatoes, and basil together, the creamy sauce adds a luxurious texture that sets the dish apart. When combined with al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs like basil, it creates an irresistible combination that is both visually appealing and mouth-wateringly delicious.

Garlic powder, in particular, provides an added layer of depth to the creamy sauce, complementing the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes while enhancing the overall aroma and flavor. The amount used – 1 teaspoon – strikes a perfect balance between subtlety and intensity, allowing each component of the dish to shine without overpowering the others.

The finished Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil is a masterclass in texture contrast and flavor harmony. With its smooth and creamy sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta, sweet cherry tomatoes bursting with juicy freshness, and fragrant basil adding an aromatic twist – all held together by the binding power of garlic powder – this recipe is sure to become a new favorite among pasta lovers.

Assemble and Bake

Creamy sauces play a crucial role in elevating the flavor profile of pasta bakes, particularly when combined with cherry tomatoes and basil. When it comes to baking creamy sauces, there are a few essential considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, the sauce itself needs to be stable at high temperatures, which is often achieved by incorporating ingredients like heavy cream or half-and-half that have a high fat content. This helps to prevent the sauce from separating or breaking down during the baking process.

The next important factor is ensuring that the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce before adding it to the baking dish. This not only prevents the pasta from becoming dry but also helps the sauce adhere evenly throughout the bake.

Cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness and acidity to the dish, balancing out the richness of the creamy sauce. When selecting cherry tomatoes for this recipe, look for ones that are firm to the touch and have a vibrant color, as these will hold their shape better during baking.

Basil is another key component in this recipe, adding its distinctive flavor and aroma to the dish. To make the most of basil’s flavor, try to add it towards the end of the baking time so that it retains some of its natural essence.

Now let’s talk about assembling and baking the creamy pasta bake. The first step is to cook the pasta al dente, then set it aside in a separate container while preparing the sauce and cherry tomatoes. Once everything is ready, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and add some grated cheese for extra flavor.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, arrange the cherry tomatoes on top, and sprinkle some additional basil leaves for garnish. Finally, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted and bubbly, which should take about 20-25 minutes.

Some other tips to consider when baking creamy sauces include using high-quality cheeses that melt well, like mozzarella or parmesan. Avoid overmixing the sauce, as this can result in a grainy texture. Also, be mindful of the oven temperature and timing to ensure that the cheese doesn’t overcook or become too dark.

* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)

The art of baking with creamy sauces is a delicate balance of flavors and textures. In the case of a Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil, it’s essential to create a rich and velvety sauce that complements the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes and the freshness of the basil.

To achieve this, we’ll be using a combination of heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and a hint of nutmeg. The key is to cook the pasta al dente, so it retains some texture and doesn’t become mushy when coated with the creamy sauce.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) as instructed earlier, ensuring that it reaches the ideal temperature for baking. While the oven is warming up, let’s move on to preparing the pasta and sauce.

Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside to dry slightly. This step is crucial in preventing the pasta from becoming sticky and difficult to coat with the creamy sauce.

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 clove of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. This will help bring out the flavor of the garlic without burning it.

Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Be careful not to let it boil over!

Add a pinch of nutmeg and a sprinkle of salt to taste, as this will help balance out the flavors in the creamy sauce.

Now that our pasta is cooked and the sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil. In a large baking dish, combine the cooked penne pasta, cherry tomatoes halved, and fresh basil leaves chopped.

Pour the creamy sauce over the top of the pasta mixture, ensuring that each piece of pasta is coated evenly. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and texture.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has bubbled and the pasta is heated through.

Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the top to golden brown slightly. This will give the Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil a delicious, caramelized crust on top!

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to set.

Slice into the creamy pasta bake and serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves and cherry tomatoes if desired. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil!

* Grease a 9x13inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter

The first step in preparing our Creamy Pasta Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil recipe is to ensure that our baking dish is properly prepared for the task at hand.

To accomplish this, we will begin by selecting a 9x13inch baking dish – a standard size that provides ample space for our creamy sauce-infused pasta bake to unfold.

Next, we will grease the interior of our chosen baking dish with non-stick spray or melted butter. This is an essential step in preventing the delicate elements of our pasta bake from sticking to the surface of the dish as it cooks.

The use of non-stick spray serves not only to prevent adhesion but also adds a level of convenience, as it allows for effortless removal of our finished dish once cooked.

Alternatively, if you prefer the more traditional approach, you can opt to brush the interior of your baking dish with melted butter. This will provide a similar non-stick effect while imbuing your dish with a rich, savory flavor.

In either case, be sure to apply an even layer of grease to all surfaces of the baking dish, taking care not to leave any dry spots that could cause sticking.