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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the assembled dish.
- 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.
- 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.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked penne pasta with the meat sauce and ricotta cheese until evenly combined.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
