Description
Cheesy Baked Penne Alfredo with Mozzarella Crust
This indulgent baked penne Alfredo is rich, creamy, and topped with a golden, bubbly mozzarella crust. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or a decadent treat!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz penne pasta
Salt, for boiling water
For the Alfredo Sauce:
3 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
For the Topping:
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
Instructions
Cook the pasta:
Boil the penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Alfredo sauce:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with black pepper and nutmeg, if using.
Assemble the dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Toss the cooked penne pasta with the Alfredo sauce, ensuring all the pasta is well coated. Transfer to a baking dish.
Add the topping:
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and paprika.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the pasta, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
Bake:
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Serve and enjoy:
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Tips for Extra Flavor
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like broccoli for a heartier dish.
Pair with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Savor the rich, cheesy goodness of this baked penne Alfredo!
Let me know how it turns out!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect result. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting. When boiling the pasta, heavily salt the water—it should taste like the sea. For the sauce, keep the heat at a gentle simmer after adding the cream; boiling can cause it to separate. Whisk the Parmesan gradually to ensure it melts smoothly into a velvety sauce. When combining pasta and sauce, do it in the skillet off the heat to coat every piece thoroughly. For the topping, mixing the breadcrumbs with oil ensures they crisp up beautifully without burning.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta is a centerpiece dish. Serve it directly from the baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation. Accompany it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic knots or a crusty baguette are perfect for scooping up any extra sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook penne al dente. Create a creamy Alfredo sauce by simmering butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan. Combine sauce and pasta, then transfer to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and an oiled breadcrumb mixture. Bake at 375°F until golden and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely, cover, 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 work well as they hold the creamy sauce effectively.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave with a splash of milk, or in a covered oven dish at 350°F until warmed through.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. Do not use milk, as it can curdle.
Why is my sauce grainy? Graininess often comes from adding cheese to sauce that is too hot or stirring insufficiently. Always remove the skillet from heat or ensure it’s at a very low simmer before gradually whisking in the Parmesan.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Boil only until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- High Heat for the Sauce: High heat can cause the cream to separate or the cheese to clump. Maintain a gentle simmer.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Grate a block of Parmesan fresh for best results.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: Reserve a cup of starchy pasta water before draining. You can use a splash to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick during assembly.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Penne Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food, combining a luxuriously creamy interior with a perfectly textured, golden crust. Its simplicity is its strength, offering a reliably delicious and crowd-pleasing meal. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at your next dinner gathering. Enjoy the process and the delicious, cheesy results!