Description
Recipe for Baked Penne Pasta
Ingredients:
12 oz (350g) penne pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cook the pasta: Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add marinara sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Combine: Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated. Transfer to a greased oven-safe skillet or baking dish.
Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Enjoy this cheesy, comforting pasta bake with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad!
Let me know if you’d like tweaks or another recipe!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect baked penne every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your 9×13 inch baking dish. While the oven heats, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the penne for 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests for al dente pasta; it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain but do not rinse. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly until the sauce is smooth and just begins to simmer. Reduce heat and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Remove from heat.
Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly until every piece is coated. Pour half of the saucy pasta into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle one cup of the mozzarella cheese over this layer. Add the remaining pasta, then top with the final cup of mozzarella and all of the grated Parmesan cheese. Place the dish in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. For a golden, crispy top, broil for the final 1-2 minutes, watching closely. Remove when the cheese is bubbly and spotted with brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and cheesy pasta bake pairs beautifully with contrasting textures and flavors. Serve it with a simple side salad of arugula or romaine with a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty focaccia is a classic companion for scooping up extra sauce. For a heartier meal, add a side of Italian-style roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. A light, chilled white wine such as Pinot Grigio complements the dish perfectly.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook penne al dente. Simmer marinara, cream, and seasonings into a sauce. Combine pasta and sauce. Layer in a dish with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake at 375°F until golden and bubbly. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this baked penne ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Rigatoni, ziti, or shells are excellent substitutes as their shapes hold sauce well. Avoid long, thin pasta like spaghetti.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the baking dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I add protein to this recipe? Easily. Brown 1/2 pound of Italian sausage or ground beef, drain the fat, and stir it into the sauce before combining with the pasta. Cooked, shredded chicken also works well.
My sauce seems too thick. What can I do? If your sauce is too thick before baking, stir in a splash of pasta water, milk, or extra marinara sauce to reach your desired consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta initially, as it will become mushy during baking. Do not skip the step of letting the baked dish rest for 5 minutes after the oven; this allows the sauce to set slightly for cleaner slices. Using pre-shredded bagged cheese is convenient, but it often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. For a smoother melt, shred your own cheese from a block. Finally, do not place the baking dish too high in the oven, as the top cheese will burn before the center is hot.
Conclusion
This baked penne pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food, delivering a creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying meal with minimal fuss. Its versatility allows for easy customization with your favorite proteins or vegetables. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. Enjoy the delicious results of your simple, hearty cooking.