Description
Cheesy Baked Penne: A Melty Delight
This cheesy baked penne is a comforting, mouthwatering dish that is simple to prepare yet packed with flavors that everyone will love!
Ingredients:
1 lb penne pasta
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the Penne: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the penne according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked penne with the sauce, making sure the pasta is well coated.
Assemble the Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta to a greased baking dish, then top with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!
This cheesy baked penne is perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends! Let me know if you need any more recipes or adjustments.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof result. First, ensure your oven rack is in the center position and preheat to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. While the pasta cooks, prepare your sauce. Gently warm the olive oil in your saucepan before adding the marinara and seasonings; this helps release the oils in the dried herbs. When adding the heavy cream, lower the heat to prevent curdling and stir constantly until fully incorporated. When combining the sauce and pasta, do so in a large bowl to ensure even coating. For assembly, consider adding a thin layer of sauce to the bottom of your greased baking dish before adding the pasta. Layer half the cheese in the middle of the pasta and the rest on top for maximum meltiness.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and comforting pasta bake pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a simple roasted vegetable, like broccoli or asparagus, also makes an excellent accompaniment. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, start with a classic antipasto platter or a bowl of minestrone soup.
How-to Summary
To summarize: cook penne al dente, create a creamy marinara sauce, combine them, layer in a dish with cheeses, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Rigatoni, ziti, or shells are excellent alternatives that hold sauce and cheese well.
How can I add protein to this bake? Browned Italian sausage, ground beef, or diced chicken breast can be mixed in with the sauce. For a vegetarian option, try rinsed canned lentils or sautéed mushrooms.
My sauce seems too thick. What should I do? Reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. You can use this to thin the sauce to your desired consistency before combining it with the pasta.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the baking dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcooking the pasta initially, as it will become mushy after baking.
- Do not boil the heavy cream sauce; keep it at a gentle simmer to prevent separation.
- Ensure your baking dish is appropriately sized. A dish that’s too deep will result in soggy pasta, while one that’s too shallow can cause overflow.
- Don’t skip garnishing with fresh parsley or basil; the fresh herb adds a necessary brightness to the rich dish.
Conclusion
This cheesy baked penne is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and a gloriously golden cheese topping. Its simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavor make it an ideal centerpiece for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily master this delicious, melty delight. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!