The aroma of baked pasta wafts through the air, a comforting embrace that promises warmth and satisfaction. Imagine cheesy goodness bubbling away, with vibrant tomatoes and herbs mingling together, creating a symphony of flavor that dances on your taste buds. This Easy Baked Penne Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in nostalgia and joy. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Cajun Pasta with Sausage recipe.
Picture this: a cozy Sunday evening, your family gathered around the table, laughter echoing as you dig into this delightful dish. With each forkful, you’re transported back to simpler times—perhaps a childhood spent at Grandma’s house, where every bite was filled with love. Perfect for casual get-togethers or even a fancy dinner, this recipe delivers deliciousness and heartwarming memories in every serving.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Easy Baked Penne Pasta is incredibly simple to throw together on a busy weeknight.
- Its rich flavors will keep everyone coming back for seconds and thirds!
- The dish looks incredible when served—golden cheese bubbling on top of vibrant pasta.
- You can easily adapt it by adding seasonal vegetables or proteins, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for Easy Baked Penne Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Penne Pasta: A classic choice for baked dishes due to its ability to hold sauce well; use whole wheat for extra fiber.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought sauce or whip up a homemade version for that personal touch.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and moisture; opt for part-skim ricotta for fewer calories.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: A must-have topping that melts beautifully; feel free to mix in some cheddar for extra flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan adds a nutty flavor; it’s the secret ingredient that takes this dish over the top!
Fresh Basil: Chopped basil brightens up the dish; use fresh leaves whenever possible for the best flavor.
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
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large pot and fill it with water. Bring it to a boil, and don’t forget to add a generous pinch of salt—this is your chance to flavor the pasta!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Once boiling, add your penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the magic.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of your mozzarella cheese, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until it’s all mixed together like you’re creating an edible masterpiece.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In another bowl, mix cooked penne with marinara sauce until it’s well coated. Then fold in the ricotta mixture gently so every piece gets some cheesy goodness without breaking apart.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Pour half of your penne mixture into the dish. Top it off with half of remaining mozzarella cheese before adding the rest of your penne mixture on top. Finish with more mozzarella and sprinkle grated Parmesan generously over everything.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (don’t let it touch that glorious cheese) and bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly!
Serve this Easy Baked Penne Pasta hot from the oven! Transfer generous portions to plates and watch as smiles spread across faces—nothing beats home-cooked pasta!
You Must Know
- This easy baked penne pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser that takes minimal effort and maximum taste.
- With its cheesy goodness and comfort-food vibes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
- Feel free to dress it up with your favorite toppings for an even more delightful experience.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the penne pasta while simultaneously preparing your sauce. Sear any protein you want to add first, then mix everything together in a baking dish before popping it into the oven for that golden finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cheese for something richer like fontina or throw in some veggies like spinach or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different sauces, such as marinara or a creamy Alfredo, to suit your palate. For more inspiration, check out this Crispy Chicken Alfredo recipe.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, seal them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through for optimal texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use salt in the boiling water for pasta; it enhances flavor and keeps the noodles from being bland.
- Always bake uncovered if you love that crispy cheese layer on top.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream before baking.
Nothing beats when my friends rave about this easy baked penne pasta at potlucks. One friend even asked for the recipe twice—like I was handing over my secret family heirloom!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Easy Baked Penne Pasta?
To make Easy Baked Penne Pasta, you’ll need penne pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian seasoning. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to get creative with your ingredient choices. perfect side for baked pasta Don’t forget to have salt and pepper on hand for seasoning. With these ingredients, you can create a hearty and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
How long does it take to prepare Easy Baked Penne Pasta?
The preparation time for Easy Baked Penne Pasta is approximately 15 minutes. Cooking the penne pasta usually takes about 10 minutes. After mixing all the ingredients and transferring them to a baking dish, you will need to bake it in the oven for around 25-30 minutes. quick breakfast solution This makes it a quick and simple meal option, ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. Overall, you can have this delightful dish ready in less than an hour.
Can I customize my Easy Baked Penne Pasta?
Absolutely! One of the great things about Easy Baked Penne Pasta is its versatility. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms or incorporating proteins such as grilled chicken or Italian sausage. Experimenting with different cheeses can also enhance the flavor profile. delicious pesto flatbread If you’re looking for a healthier version, consider using whole wheat pasta or low-fat cheeses. This dish adapts well to various dietary preferences while still remaining delicious.
Is Easy Baked Penne Pasta suitable for freezing?
Yes, Easy Baked Penne Pasta is perfect for freezing! To freeze leftovers or make a batch ahead of time, allow the dish to cool completely after baking. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until hot throughout.
Conclusion for Easy Baked Penne Pasta :
Easy Baked Penne Pasta is an enticing dish that’s not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. By using basic ingredients like penne pasta and various cheeses, you can create a comforting meal that pleases everyone at the table. Whether you choose to customize it with additional veggies or proteins or stick to the classic version, this recipe guarantees satisfaction. Enjoy this delightful pasta dish any night of the week; it’s a fantastic addition to your collection of easy dinner ideas!
Easy Baked Penne Pasta
Easy Baked Penne Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, featuring al dente penne enveloped in a rich marinara sauce and layered with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to golden perfection, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With its customizable nature, you can easily add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it uniquely yours. Delight in every cheesy bite that evokes warmth and nostalgia.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Cook the penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, mix cooked penne with marinara sauce until well coated; then gently fold in the ricotta mixture.
- Grease a baking dish and layer half of the penne mixture in it. Top with half of the remaining mozzarella. Add the rest of the penne mixture and finish with more mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: - Customize by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or proteins like grilled chicken or sausage. - For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream before baking. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.