Baked penne pasta is like a warm embrace on a chilly evening. Imagine digging into a dish filled with tender pasta, bubbling cheese, and rich tomato sauce that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafting through the house brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in—who doesn’t love a meal that feels like home?
Now, picture this: you’ve had a long day at work, and the last thing you want to do is slave away in the kitchen. Enter Easy Baked Penne Pasta, your new best friend! It’s simple to whip up, impressively delicious, and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a fancy dinner or just Tuesday night. delicious flatbread pizza recipe So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy Baked Penne Pasta requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor without breaking a sweat.
- Its cheesy goodness will have you dreaming of second helpings.
- The vibrant colors make it a showstopper at any gathering, enticing even the pickiest eaters.
- You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit everyone’s taste buds.
Ingredients for Easy Baked Penne Pasta
For more inspiration, check out this Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Penne Pasta: This tubular pasta holds the sauce beautifully. Use whole wheat for an extra nutritional punch.
Olive Oil: A drizzle adds flavor and prevents sticking. Extra virgin works wonders here.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves pack a punch of flavor; don’t skimp on them!
Crushed Tomatoes: Look for high-quality canned tomatoes for a rich base that makes your sauce shine.
For the Cheese Mixture:
Mozzarella Cheese: Use shredded mozzarella for that gooey meltiness we all crave.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds depth and richness to the overall 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 it warms up, grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add in the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes should do it! Drain the pasta, but don’t rinse; you want some starch left on there.
Step 3: Create Your Sauce
In the same pot over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about one minute). Then pour in those luscious crushed tomatoes and stir in salt, pepper, and any herbs you fancy—basil or oregano work wonders here.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked penne pasta into your sauce mixture and toss until every piece is coated in that glorious tomato goodness. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese; it’s about to get cheesy!
Step 5: Bake It Up
Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Parmesan on top for good measure—because why not? Pop it in the preheated oven for around 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving—if you can resist! Dish out generous portions onto plates and bask in the compliments from family or friends as they devour this easy baked penne pasta goodness.
Now you’re all set! This Easy Baked Penne Pasta not only fills bellies but also warms hearts—perfect for those evenings when you need comfort food without fussing over complicated recipes. So go ahead, dig in! For more inspiration, check out this Easy Cajun Pasta with Sausage recipe.
You Must Know
- This Easy Baked Penne Pasta is not just a comforting dish; it’s a lifesaver during busy weeknights.
- With its creamy sauce and cheesy goodness, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a warm hug for your taste buds.
- Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, cook your penne pasta until al dente while you prepare the sauce. Sauté garlic in olive oil, then add tomatoes and seasonings. Combine everything with the pasta in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly for the perfect Easy Baked Penne Pasta.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap penne with any pasta you love or toss in vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also use different cheeses such as mozzarella or cheddar, depending on your mood or what’s lurking in your fridge! sweet ending with cookies.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Easy Baked Penne Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cheese for a richer flavor and perfect melt.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Experiment with spices; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add delightful heat!
Sometimes, I whip up this Easy Baked Penne Pasta when friends drop by unexpectedly. They rave about it every time, claiming it’s their new favorite comfort food—and I secretly love how easy it is to prepare!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Easy Baked Penne Pasta?
To make Easy Baked Penne Pasta, you will need penne pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian seasoning. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Ensure you have enough salt and pepper to taste. This dish is versatile, so feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or leftovers.
How long does it take to prepare Easy Baked Penne Pasta?
Preparing Easy Baked Penne Pasta generally takes around 15 minutes. Cooking the penne pasta may take about 10-12 minutes until al dente. After combining the ingredients and layering them in a baking dish, you’ll need another 20-25 minutes in the oven. Overall, you can have this delicious dish ready in approximately 45 minutes from start to finish.
Can I make Easy Baked Penne Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Easy Baked Penne Pasta ahead of time! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. If baking from cold, be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly before serving.
What can I serve with Easy Baked Penne Pasta?
Easy Baked Penne Pasta pairs well with a variety of dishes. You can serve it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a light meal. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are also great additions for soaking up the sauce. perfectly grilled lamb chops Additionally, roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli will complement this hearty pasta dish perfectly.
Conclusion for Easy Baked Penne Pasta :
In summary, Easy Baked Penne Pasta is a quick and satisfying meal that combines simple ingredients for maximum flavor. With just a short preparation time and minimal effort required, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. mini cheesecakes for dessert Customizing this dish with your favorite veggies or proteins makes it even more versatile. Enjoy this comforting recipe that brings warmth and joy to your dining table!
Easy Baked Penne Pasta
Easy Baked Penne Pasta is the perfect comfort food, combining tender penne pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese for a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and full. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll create a deliciously hearty meal that warms both heart and home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or oregano (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain without rinsing.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper (and herbs if desired); stir well.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce mixture, then fold in half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer everything into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. Swap penne for your favorite pasta shape if desired. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
