Easy Baked Penne Pasta is like a cozy hug on a plate, offering layers of cheesy goodness and savory flavors that dance together in perfect harmony. Imagine the aroma of bubbling cheese and herb-infused tomato sauce wafting through your kitchen, making your mouth water before you even take a bite. perfect pairing for pasta This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience, one that beckons family and friends to gather around the table with smiles and anticipation.
Now, let me take you back to a chilly Sunday afternoon. Picture me, armed with nothing but an apron and an insatiable craving for comfort food. I decided to whip up this Easy Baked Penne Pasta. As I stirred the bubbling pot of pasta, memories of family gatherings flooded my mind—laughter echoing, forks clinking, and everyone diving into seconds (and thirds). delicious flatbread pizza There’s nothing like sharing a delicious meal with loved ones, especially when it’s as delightful as this baked penne!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Easy Baked Penne Pasta is incredibly straightforward to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- The blend of creamy cheeses and zesty tomato sauce creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Its colorful presentation makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
- Enjoy it as a hearty main dish or pair it with your favorite salad for added versatility.
Ingredients for Easy Baked Penne Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Penne Pasta: A classic choice for baked pasta dishes; its tubular shape holds onto sauces perfectly.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred marinara or homemade sauce for authentic Italian flavor.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and helps bind the pasta together beautifully.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole-milk mozzarella for a gooey and melty topping.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty kick that elevates the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Fresh Basil: Chopped basil brings freshness; feel free to use dried if fresh isn’t available.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your baked penne.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy Baked Penne Pasta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pasta will bake evenly and come out bubbling hot.
Step 2: Cook the Penne
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Sauces
In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce with ricotta cheese. Stir until well blended; this mixture will coat the pasta beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked penne into the bowl along with half of the shredded mozzarella and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until each piece of pasta is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish
Transfer your pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly then sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top for that glorious cheesy crust.
Step 6: Bake
Cover with aluminum foil (to keep all that moisture in) and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil in the last five minutes so your cheese gets that beautiful golden brown color.
Transfer to plates once done, serve hot, and maybe sprinkle some extra basil on top for good measure!
And there you have it—your Easy Baked Penne Pasta is ready to impress! Enjoy every bubbly forkful amidst laughter at your table!
You Must Know
- This easy baked penne pasta dish is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl.
- Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s endlessly customizable and always satisfying.
- Throw in your favorite ingredients and watch it become a family favorite in no time!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best easy baked penne pasta, start by boiling the penne until al dente. While that simmers, prepare your sauce on the side. great side treat Once the pasta is ready, mix everything together and bake until bubbly. Efficiency is key for perfect results!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your easy baked penne pasta! Swap out the marinara sauce for Alfredo if you’re feeling adventurous or toss in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan for unique flavors. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Cajun Pasta with Sausage recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover easy baked penne pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, cover it with foil and warm it in the oven to keep that cheesy goodness intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always cook your pasta until just al dente; it will continue cooking while baking.
- Use fresh herbs to elevate the dish’s flavor and aroma.
- Don’t skimp on cheese—it’s what makes this dish irresistibly delicious!
Sometimes, I whip up this easy baked penne pasta on a rainy day, and my kids proclaim me their culinary hero. It’s become our go-to comfort food that sparks joy every time we dig in! For more inspiration, check out this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Easy Baked Penne Pasta?
For an easy baked penne pasta, gather penne pasta, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and your choice of vegetables or protein like spinach or ground beef. You can also include herbs such as basil and oregano for added flavor. This recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize based on what you have at home. The combination of cheeses creates a creamy texture that complements the pasta beautifully.
How long does it take to prepare Easy Baked Penne Pasta?
Preparing easy baked penne pasta typically takes about 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes to bake. Start by boiling the penne until al dente. While the pasta cooks, mix the sauces and cheeses in a baking dish. After combining everything and adding toppings, bake until bubbly and golden. Overall, you can expect a delicious meal on your table in less than an hour.
Can I make Easy Baked Penne Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can absolutely make easy baked penne pasta ahead of time! Prepare the dish as directed but stop before baking. Instead of putting it in the oven, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as instructed, adding an extra few minutes if necessary to ensure it’s heated through.
Is Easy Baked Penne Pasta suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! Easy baked penne pasta can be easily made vegetarian-friendly. Just omit any meat ingredients and load up on vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini instead. The rich flavors from the cheeses and marinara sauce will keep this dish satisfying without any meat. It’s a great option for family dinners or gatherings where dietary preferences vary.
Conclusion for Easy Baked Penne Pasta :
Easy baked penne pasta is a versatile dish perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. Its simple preparation allows you to customize flavors with various ingredients while keeping cooking time short. Remember to use quality cheeses for a creamy texture and consider adding veggies or proteins based on your preference. sweet dessert option With just a little effort, you can create a delightful meal that everyone will love! Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends.
Easy Baked Penne Pasta
Easy Baked Penne Pasta is a delightful comfort food that combines al dente penne pasta with rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella cheese. This dish bakes to perfection under a golden crust, creating a deliciously cheesy and savory experience that brings family and friends together for cozy meals. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this easy recipe promises to be a hit at your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded whole-milk mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil salted water, cook penne pasta until al dente (8-10 minutes), drain, and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix marinara sauce with ricotta cheese until well combined.
- Stir in cooked penne, half of the mozzarella, and chopped basil; season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; uncover during the last 5 minutes for a golden crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Customize the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or swap marinara for Alfredo sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven covered with foil.
