Simple Baked Penne Pasta Recipe

I don’t know how many times people have asked me for this recipe, but I think you’re going to love it. I can tell you that it’s super easy and perfect for family dinners.

I want to share my simple baked penne pasta recipe with you. This dish is so creamy and rich. The penne pasta is cooked just right, mixed with a tasty tomato sauce and lots of melted cheese. The garlic and tomatoes make it taste amazing, with a little basil adding extra flavor. When it’s baked, you get a crispy top layer that’s so good.

I hope you try creamy baked penne pasta and enjoy it as much as I do. It’s perfect for any night when you want something warm and comforting.

How did I learn this dish?

I don’t know how I first got hooked on how to make baked penne pasta dish, but I think it was during a family dinner when I was a kid. But I can tell you that this baked penne pasta with mozzarella has become a favorite in my home.

I remember watching my grandmother in the kitchen, her hands moving so easily as she cooked. I used to sit and watch her mix ingredients, smelling the great smells that filled the house. One day, she let me help with the pasta, and that’s when I knew I wanted to learn how to make it myself.

This recipe is special because it uses simple ingredients that make a tasty and comforting meal. The creamy cheese, tangy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta come together to make a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Here are a few fun facts about this recipe:

• Origin: This dish comes from Italy, a place known for its love of pasta and cheese.
  
  
• Family Tradition: My grandmother always said that a good pasta dish brings the family together, and I’ve found that to be true.
  
  
• Modern Twist: Over the years, I’ve added my own touches, like using different cheeses and adding fresh basil.

I hope you find this recipe as comforting and delicious as I do. It’s perfect for sharing with love.d ones, just like my grandmother shared it with me.

Recipe

Imagine a cozy evening with a dish that feels like a warm hug—our simple baked penne pasta is just that!

Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving

Ingredients:

Quick and easy penne pasta recipes with few ingredients:

Equipment:

Method of Instruction

Step 1: Wash Hands I always start by washing my hands to keep everything clean.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives us time to prepare everything else.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook for about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.

Step 5: Add the Tomato Sauce Stir in the tomato sauce and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. I think this step is key to making the sauce flavorful.

Step 6: Mix the Cottage Cheese In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. I love how creamy this makes the dish.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce Mix the cooked pasta with the tomato sauce in the skillet. Make sure all the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.

Step 8: Layer in a Baking Dish Spread half of the pasta mixture in a baking dish. Add a layer of the cottage cheese mixture, and then top with the remaining pasta.

Step 9: Add Mozzarella and Parmesan Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. I think this cheese blend makes the top so tasty and crispy.

Step 10: Bake the Pasta Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 11: Let It Rest Once out of the oven, let the pasta rest for about 5 minutes. I know it’s hard to wait, but this makes it easier to serve.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy Serve the pasta hot, and enjoy every delicious bite. I can’t wait for you to try this and tell me how it went!

This recipe is one of my favorites, and I think it will become a favorite in your home too. Happy cooking!

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Recipe Video

Italian penne pasta recipes:

This is the video about how to make baked penne pasta recipe at home.

Author: Yummy Kitchen

Rated: 4.1 of 5.0 from 211 reviews.

Servings

Traditional Style

I love keeping it simple sometimes. Serve the pasta hot from the oven with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. This gives a fresh taste and makes the dish look beautiful.

In a Bread Bowl

I think using a bread bowl is a fun way to serve pasta. Hollow out a round loaf of bread and fill it with the pasta. It’s a meal and bread all in one!

Topped with Grilled Veggies

But I can tell you that grilled vegetables add a lovely smoky flavor. Top your easy baked ziti recipe vegetarian with some grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.

With a Side Salad

My favorite way to balance the meal is by adding a fresh side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the cheesy pasta.

In Individual Ramekins

I think individual servings make any meal special. Bake the pasta in small ramekins for a personal touch. It’s perfect for dinner parties!

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

My secret to a vibrant dish is fresh herbs. Sprinkle chopped basil, oregano, or thyme on top before serving. It adds color and a burst of flavor.

With a Spicy Twist

If you like a bit of heat, like me, add some red pepper flakes. Sprinkle them on top or mix them into the pasta before baking for a spicy kick.

Topped with Crunchy Breadcrumbs

I find adding texture makes a big difference. Mix some breadcrumbs with a little olive oil and sprinkle on top before baking. It creates a delightful crunch.

Served with Garlic Bread

But I can tell you that garlic bread is a classic side that never fails. Serve the pasta with warm, buttery garlic bread for a comforting meal.

With a Creamy Sauce Drizzle

For extra richness, I love adding a creamy sauce. Drizzle some Alfredo or béchamel sauce over the pasta just before serving for an indulgent touch.

Tips

Wash Your Hands

I always start by washing my hands. It’s the first step to making sure everything stays clean and safe. It’s a simple habit but so important!

Use Fresh Ingredients

I think using the freshest ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh herbs, vegetables, and cheese can really elevate the flavor of the dish.

Cook Pasta Al Dente

I cook my pasta al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite. It keeps cooking in the oven, so you don’t want it too soft.

Season Your Pasta Water

But I can tell you that seasoning your pasta water is key. Add a good amount of salt to the boiling water before adding the pasta. It’s your first chance to add flavor.

Mix Cheese for Best Flavor

I love mixing different types of cheese. Using mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta together gives a wonderful blend of creaminess and tanginess.

Add a Layer of Sauce

I always add a layer of sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. This keeps the pasta from sticking and adds extra flavor to each bite.

Let It Rest

After baking, I let the pasta rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve. Plus, it lets the flavors meld together perfectly.

Garnish Before Serving

But I can tell you that garnishing makes a difference. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated cheese just before serving makes the dish look and taste even better.

Serve with a Side

I think serving with a side dish enhances the meal. A fresh salad or garlic bread complements the pasta nicely and rounds out the dinner.

Store Leftovers Properly

I always make sure to store leftovers properly. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat gently to maintain the texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutes

Swap Out for Flavor

I like to use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a nutty twist. If you’re looking for a bit of crunch, this change can add a delightful flavor and texture.

Dairy-Free Delight

If you’re avoiding dairy, I recommend using coconut milk in place of regular milk. It gives a rich, creamy texture without the dairy.

Meat-Free Magic

I think chickpeas can replace ground beef or sausage. They add a hearty texture and a nice protein boost, perfect for those who prefer plant-based options.

Vegan Cheese Option

For a vegan twist, I use nutritional yeast instead of cheese. It adds a cheesy flavor without any dairy, and it’s a great way to keep things vegan.

Spice It Up

I love adding smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a smoky depth of flavor. It really changes up the taste and adds a bit of excitement to the dish.

Low-Sodium Choice

I use homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought for a lower sodium option. It’s an easy way to control the salt and still get a rich flavor.

Gluten-Free Switch

For a gluten-free version, I switch to gluten-free pasta. It’s just as tasty and ensures everyone can enjoy the dish.

Fresh Herbs

I like using fresh basil or parsley instead of dried herbs. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and make the dish look vibrant and appetizing.

Creamy Vegan Option

I think cashew cream can replace heavy cream for a creamy vegan option. It’s smooth and perfect for those avoiding animal products.

Nutty Crunch

If you need a nut-free option, try crushed rice cakes instead of nuts for a bit of crunch. It’s a simple and allergy-friendly substitute.

These substitutes make the easy baked penne pasta flexible and accessible to everyone. I’m looking forward to hearing which ones you try and how they work for you!

FAQ’S

Do you need to boil pasta before pasta bake?

Yes, you should boil the pasta before baking to ensure it’s fully cooked and absorbs the flavors well.

How long to boil penne before baking?

Boil penne for about 7-8 minutes before baking. It should be slightly undercooked to avoid mushiness.

How do you make penne pasta taste better?

To make penne pasta taste better, add seasoning to the boiling water, use flavorful sauces, and mix in fresh herbs or cheese.

How do you keep baked pasta moist?

To keep baked pasta moist, cover it with foil while baking and add extra sauce or cheese.

Can I cook dry pasta in sauce?

Yes, you can cook dry pasta in sauce. Just make sure there is enough liquid to cook the pasta properly.

Will pasta soften in the oven?

Yes, pasta will soften in the oven, especially if it is mixed with a sauce or liquid.

How to stop pasta bake drying out?

To stop pasta bake from drying out, cover it with foil while baking and add extra sauce or cheese on top.

How to cook penne perfectly?

To cook penne perfectly, boil it in salted water until it’s al dente, then drain and rinse briefly.

What is the best pasta shape for pasta bake?

Penne is a great pasta shape for baking because its ridges and tube shape hold sauces well.

Remarks

This simple baked penne pasta brings comfort and joy with every bite. It’s a recipe that turns ordinary moments into cherished memories.