Baked penne is the ultimate comfort food that wraps you in a warm, cheesy embrace with every forkful. Picture this: layers of perfectly cooked pasta nestled in a rich, tangy marinara sauce, all topped with bubbling mozzarella that stretches like a dream. Trust me, the aroma wafting from your oven will have everyone flocking to the kitchen faster than you can say “seconds, please!”
As I reminisce about my first encounter with baked penne, I can’t help but chuckle. It was during a family gathering where my uncle, always the culinary daredevil, decided to experiment with spices. Let’s just say that his version was more “explosive” than “edible.” But when I finally tasted a well-made baked penne—heavenly! Now it’s my go-to dish for cozy nights or when I want to impress guests without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Baked Penne
- This incredible Baked Penne transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Baked Penne:
- Penne Pasta: Choose high-quality pasta; it holds up well in baking and soaks up all that delightful sauce.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade; either way, it’s the heart of this dish.
- Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess and richness; opt for whole milk ricotta for the best texture.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh or shredded works great; it melts beautifully and pulls apart like a dream.
- Parmesan Cheese: For that salty kick; freshly grated adds the most flavor.
For the Seasoning:
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the flavor of your baked penne—don’t skip this.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Baked Penne:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your baked penne cooks evenly and comes out piping hot.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained penne to the cheese-sauce mixture. Gently fold everything together until all pasta pieces are coated in that glorious sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the remaining mozzarella on top. Add the rest of the pasta mixture and finish with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serve it warm with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread for an unforgettable meal experience!
You Must Know About Baked Penne
- This showstopping Baked Penne delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
To achieve Baked Penne perfection, start by boiling the pasta al dente while simultaneously preparing your sauce. Once the sauce is ready, mix in the pasta and then layer it with cheese before baking. This method ensures everything cooks evenly and maintains ideal texture.
Flavor Your Way
Baked Penne is a canvas awaiting your creativity. Swap in different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors. You can also toss in vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms, or even add protein like chicken or sausage to customize this dish to your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Baked Penne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil to retain moisture and bake at 350°F until heated through. This will help preserve its cheesy goodness without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Baked Penne
- This professional-quality Baked Penne relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
When I first made Baked Penne for my friends, they declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” In reality, it was just my excuse to show off my cheesy culinary skills!
FAQs
What is Baked Penne?
Baked Penne is a delicious Italian-American dish that features penne pasta mixed with a savory tomato sauce, creamy cheeses, and often includes meat or vegetables. The dish is usually topped with mozzarella cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. This comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. It’s easy to prepare, making it a favorite for many home cooks who enjoy hearty, satisfying meals.
How do you make Baked Penne?
To make Baked Penne, begin by cooking the penne pasta until al dente. In a separate pan, prepare your sauce by sautéing garlic and onions, then adding diced tomatoes, herbs, and any protein or vegetables. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and mix in ricotta cheese for creaminess. Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Can I customize my Baked Penne?
Absolutely! One of the best features of Baked Penne is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. If you want a protein boost, consider adding ground beef, sausage, or chicken. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as parmesan or gouda to enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
What sides pair well with Baked Penne?
Baked Penne pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. A fresh garden salad brings a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta. Garlic bread is another popular choice that complements the meal perfectly. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli to round out your dinner plate.
Conclusion
In summary, Baked Penne is an incredibly versatile and satisfying dish suitable for any occasion. With its rich flavors from tomato sauce and creamy cheeses, it’s sure to please both family and friends alike. Customizing this dish allows you to adapt it to your taste preferences easily. Whether paired with a fresh salad or garlic bread, Baked Penne will surely become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!
Baked Penne
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Description
Baked Penne is the ultimate comfort dish that beautifully combines al dente pasta, rich marinara sauce, and layers of melted cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With its warm, cheesy goodness and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready to dig into a plate of Baked Penne that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook penne pasta in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix marinara sauce, ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the drained pasta with the sauce mixture until well coated.
- Layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased baking dish. Add half of the remaining mozzarella on top. Repeat with the remaining pasta and finish with all the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 384
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
