Baked Penne Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both hearty and packed with rich flavors, this Baked Penne Recipe is an absolute winner. Picture perfectly cooked penne pasta swimming in a savory meat and marinara sauce, generously layered with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s a straightforward yet sensational meal that transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying Italian feast you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is where your Baked Penne Recipe journey begins. Each one plays a vital role: from the al dente penne providing a sturdy base to the aromatic blend of herbs and cheeses that bring richness and depth.

• 1 pound penne pasta: The tubular shape holds sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the meat and vegetables, adding a subtle fruity richness.
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage: Gives the dish a savory, meaty foundation; choose sausage for extra spice.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with wonderful aroma and a gentle bite.
• 24 ounces marinara sauce: The heart of the dish, offering tangy tomato flavor and vibrant color.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the dish perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Blends herbs like oregano and basil for authentic Italian taste.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a hint of spice to wake up the palate.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Provides creamy texture and a mellow, slightly sweet flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, irresistible topping.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty finish that complements the other cheeses.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional): Fresh herbs brighten the dish with a pop of color and fresh aroma.

How to Make Baked Penne Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by boiling the penne pasta in salted water until it’s perfectly al dente—cooked through but still firm to the bite. Drain it carefully to keep the pasta from becoming mushy, then set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Meat and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add your ground beef or Italian sausage and cook it until it’s browned and crumbly, which builds a rich base flavor. Toss in the finely chopped onion, allowing it to soften and sweeten for a few minutes, followed by minced garlic for an extra layer of aromatic goodness.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the marinara sauce and stir in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a kick. Let this simmer for five minutes so all the herbs and spices meld into a luscious, flavorful sauce that clings beautifully to your pasta.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Ricotta

Transfer the drained pasta into a large bowl and stir in your meat sauce along with the creamy ricotta cheese. Mixing these ingredients ensures every single penne is coated with cheesy, meaty goodness, setting the stage for a spectacular bake.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Move this fantastic mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes in a 375°F oven until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden topping. Allow it to rest for a few minutes after baking so the flavors can settle and your baked penne slices nicely.

How to Serve Baked Penne Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley sprinkled on top right before serving add a fresh, vibrant aroma and a beautiful splash of green that makes the dish even more inviting. It’s a simple touch but one that makes an impressive presentation.

Side Dishes

This baked penne is satisfying on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for added texture and balance. Garlic bread or a warm Italian loaf is perfect for mopping up every last bit of cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun spin, serve your baked penne in individual ramekins for a charming, restaurant-style touch. Alternatively, sprinkle extra Parmesan and broil for the last minute to get a golden, crispy top that adds a delightful crunch contrast to the creamy interior.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover baked penne keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy this hearty dish again without any loss in flavor or texture.

Freezing

If you want to make this recipe ahead for busy days, it freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers before baking or freeze the baked and cooled dish. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep moisture in, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave it in a ceramic dish, stirring occasionally to heat evenly and keep the cheese from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

Can I make this baked penne without meat?

Absolutely! You can easily swap out the ground beef or sausage for a mix of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version that is just as flavorful.

What cheese can I use if I don’t have ricotta?

If ricotta is not handy, you can use cottage cheese or mascarpone as substitutes. Both offer creamy textures that blend well into the sauce and keep that luscious richness in the dish.

Is it okay to use a different pasta shape?

While penne’s shape is perfect because it holds sauce inside each tube, you can definitely experiment with rigatoni, ziti, or even shells. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the pasta’s package instructions.

How spicy is this recipe with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth, so it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste or leave them out altogether if you prefer a milder dish.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based ground meat or vegetables for the sauce, and replace the cheeses with vegan alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a lovely cheesy flavor as well, making it suitable for a vegan diet without sacrificing taste.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Penne Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, satisfying, and downright delicious. It’s easy enough for a midweek dinner yet impressive enough for guests, ticking all the boxes for a timeless Italian favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own family classic!

Baked Penne Recipe

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4.1 from 71 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This classic Baked Penne recipe features al dente pasta combined with a savory meat sauce, ricotta, and melted cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a hearty and comforting Italian main course perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

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Ingredients

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Pasta

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Meat Sauce

• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Cheese

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the assembled dish.
2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
3. Prepare Meat Sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce, then add salt, black pepper, dried Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked penne pasta with the meat sauce and ricotta cheese until evenly combined.
5. Assemble in Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
7. Rest and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the baked penne rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey or omit the meat entirely and use sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• For extra creaminess, stir in ½ cup heavy cream into the sauce before baking.
• Make sure not to overcook the pasta before baking to avoid mushy texture.
• Use fresh herbs for garnish to add bright flavor and color.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian