Welcome, my fellow comfort food enthusiasts! Today, I’m beyond excited to share with you my recipe for cheesy baked penne, a classic dish that warms not just your belly, but your heart. Seriously, there’s nothing quite like pulling a bubbling, cheesy dish out of the oven and diving into that gooey goodness. This dish has been a staple in my home for as long as I can remember. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or when you just need a little pick-me-up. The combination of tender pasta, rich marinara, and all that melty cheese is pure magic! Trust me, once you try this cheesy baked penne, it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen, too. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Penne
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that comforting, cheesy flavor we’re all craving. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
- 12 oz penne pasta: The star of the show! Cooked until al dente, it holds onto the sauce perfectly.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Look for a rich, flavorful sauce that’ll bring everything together. Homemade or store-bought, it’s your choice!
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese adds a lovely texture and richness to the mix.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The more, the merrier! This cheesy goodness will melt beautifully on top.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that extra cheesy kick and a hint of nuttiness. You can’t go wrong here!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Just a splash to help everything blend together and add a touch of richness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A sprinkle of this will amp up the flavor profile significantly.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs is like a hug for your pasta, bringing in those aromatic notes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! A little salt and pepper will enhance all those delicious flavors.
These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering cheesy baked penne that’s sure to impress. Let’s get ready to dive into the cooking process!
How to Prepare Cheesy Baked Penne
Alright, let’s get down to business and make this cheesy baked penne! It’s really a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll love each step. Just follow along, and soon you’ll be savoring this comforting classic!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot for that perfect bake.
- Cook the penne: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your 12 oz of penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it firm because it will cook a bit more in the oven.
- Drain and return: Once the pasta is ready, drain it well and return it to the pot. This is where the magic starts to happen!
- Add the flavors: Now, add in your 2 cups of marinara sauce, 2 cups of ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until all the pasta is coated in that delicious sauce.
- Transfer to baking dish: Next, pour this cheesy mixture into a greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese on top. This is where you’ll get that wonderful bubbly crust!
- Bake: Pop it in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until everything is hot and bubbly with a golden cheesy top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Cool and serve: Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before diving in. This helps the cheese set just a bit for easier serving.
And there you have it! Each step is simple, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious cheesy baked penne ready to enjoy. Bon appétit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesy baked penne is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here’s why you’re going to fall head over heels for this comforting classic:
- Quick preparation time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll be on your way to cheesy goodness in no time!
- Comforting flavor: Each bite is like a warm hug, with the perfect combination of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and rich marinara sauce.
- Vegetarian-friendly: This dish is a hit for everyone at the table, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
- Customizable: Want to jazz it up? Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables or add some cooked meat for an extra boost of flavor!
Trust me, once you try this cheesy baked penne, you’ll be making it on repeat! It’s a dish that brings everyone together and keeps them coming back for more.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to tackle this cheesy baked penne, I want to share some of my best tips to ensure your dish turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Remember, you want the pasta to be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven. If you cook it too soft, you’ll end up with mushy pasta after baking.
- Mix it well: When combining the ingredients, make sure everything is thoroughly mixed so every bite is packed with flavor. You want that cheesy goodness in every forkful!
- Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to play around with different cheeses! A blend of provolone or even a sprinkle of feta can elevate the dish to new heights.
- Let it rest: After baking, give your cheesy baked penne a few minutes to cool before serving. This helps the cheese set a bit, making it easier to scoop and serve.
- Season to taste: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste your mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning if needed. It can make all the difference in flavor.
- Add a crispy topping: For an extra crunchy texture, consider mixing some breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkling it on top before baking. It gives a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta.
With these tips up your sleeve, you’ll be ready to impress everyone with your cheesy baked penne! Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Baked Penne
Now that you’ve got your cheesy baked penne ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! This dish is so comforting and filling that it pairs wonderfully with lighter options to balance it out. Here are some of my favorite accompaniments that will elevate your meal:
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a side of warm, buttery garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce on your plate!
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a nice crunch and a zesty contrast to the creamy pasta. The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons make it a delightful pairing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss together some seasonal veggies—like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus—drizzled with olive oil and roasted until caramelized. They add color and nutrition to your meal!
- Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with a simple vinaigrette can really brighten up the plate. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the cheesy baked penne.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic is an easy side that not only tastes great but also adds a pop of color and nutrients to your dinner.
Feel free to mix and match these sides based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. The goal is to create a delightful dining experience that complements the comforting classic of cheesy baked penne. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This cheesy baked penne stores beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option. To store, simply let it cool completely, then transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, so you can enjoy it again later!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the penne in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you like, you can uncover it for a few minutes at the end to get that cheesy top all bubbly again! You could also microwave individual portions, just be cautious not to overdo it, or you’ll end up with a rubbery texture. Enjoy those comforting vibes all over again!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to cheesy baked penne, it’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body, even when indulging in comfort food! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 20g
Keep in mind that these values are just estimates and can vary based on specific brands of ingredients or any additional toppings you choose to include. It’s always a good idea to adjust according to your dietary needs. Enjoy your cheesy baked penne without a care, knowing it’s not just comfort food but also a source of nourishment!
FAQ About Cheesy Baked Penne
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love the classic penne for this cheesy baked penne, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand. Fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells work wonderfully, just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven. It’s a great way to save time on busy evenings!
Can I freeze cheesy baked penne?
Yes, it freezes beautifully! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
No problem! Just substitute the penne pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative. There are plenty of great options available now that taste fantastic and will hold up well in this cheesy baked penne.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to get creative! Adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even spinach can boost the flavor and nutrition. For meat lovers, cooked ground beef or sausage is an excellent addition that pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness.
Cheesy Baked Penne: 7 Tips for This Comforting Classic
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy baked penne is a comforting classic dish that combines pasta, cheese, and a rich sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Add marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pasta.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add cooked vegetables or meat for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- This dish can be frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: cheesy baked penne, pasta, comfort food, Italian recipe
