Cheesy Baked Penne Perfect for Family Dinner Night

Are you ready to create a family dinner that everyone will love? This Cheesy Baked Penne is easy to make and packed with flavor. Imagine a warm dish of creamy cheese, rich marinara, and tender pasta coming together for the perfect meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can impress your loved ones. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe that brings comfort and joy to your dinner table!

Ingredients

Cooking Cheesy Baked Penne is fun and easy! Here is what you need:

– 12 oz penne pasta

– 2 cups marinara sauce

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

These ingredients make the dish creamy and flavorful. The pasta is the star here, and it absorbs all the tasty sauce. The mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives it that perfect cheesy goodness. You can adjust the spices to match your family’s taste. If you like a kick, add the red pepper flakes! This recipe is great for family dinner night. You can find the full recipe with steps to create this dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

– Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions.

– Drain and cool the pasta.

– In a bowl, mix the sauce ingredients.

To start, preheating the oven is key. A hot oven helps the dish cook evenly. Then, boil salted water in a pot. Add the penne pasta and cook until it’s just right, or al dente. This helps keep the pasta firm when baking. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.

Next, grab a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth. This creamy sauce will coat the pasta perfectly.

Layering and Baking

– Combine the pasta with the sauce.

– Prepare the baking dish.

– Layer the penne and cheeses.

– Bake covered, then uncover and bake until golden.

Now, fold the cooked penne into the sauce mixture. Stir gently, so every piece of pasta gets coated. Next, take a large baking dish. Grease it with non-stick spray or olive oil to prevent sticking. Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in the dish.

Now comes the cheese! Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan on top. Then layer the remaining pasta mixture over this. Finish by topping with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan. This will give a nice cheesy crust.

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil. Bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This is when it starts to smell amazing!

Serving Suggestions

– Let the dish rest before serving.

– Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

– Recommended serving styles: individual bowls or family-style.

Once done, take the dish out of the oven. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors mix well. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top. They add a pop of color and flavor.

You can serve the cheesy baked penne in individual bowls. Or, keep it family-style right in the baking dish. Pair it with a light salad to complete the meal. For the full recipe, check out the details above!

Tips & Tricks

How to Perfect Cheesy Baked Penne

– Achieving the best pasta texture: Cook your penne until it’s al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Under-cooking it slightly lets the pasta soak up sauce without getting mushy.

– Ensuring a balanced flavor with seasonings: Use dried oregano and basil to enhance taste. A touch of red pepper flakes adds heat. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your taste. Mix these well into your sauce for even flavor.

– Tips for melting cheese perfectly: Layer your cheeses evenly. Combine mozzarella and Parmesan for a great melt. Cover your dish with foil during the first part of baking. This helps trap heat and moisture, making the cheese bubbly and golden.

Ingredient Substitutions

– Alternative cheeses for varied flavors: You can swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter feel. Use smoked mozzarella for a unique taste. Try goat cheese for a tangy twist.

– Marinara sauce substitutions: If you don’t have marinara, use any tomato-based sauce. Alfredo sauce gives a creamy spin. Pesto can also be a fun option.

– Gluten-free pasta options: Use gluten-free penne to keep it friendly for all diets. Look for brands made from rice or chickpeas for good texture.

Cooking Techniques

– Importance of al dente pasta: Cooking pasta just right ensures it holds up in the dish. Overcooked pasta turns mushy and affects the whole meal.

– Proper layering for even baking: Start with a layer of penne, then cheese, and repeat. This helps distribute flavors and makes every bite cheesy.

– Use of foil to retain moisture: Covering your dish with foil keeps moisture in. This step prevents the pasta from drying out while baking. Remove the foil towards the end for a nice, crispy top.

For more details, check out the Full Recipe to create this tasty family dish!

Variations

Vegetarian Add-Ons

You can easily make Cheesy Baked Penne even better with veggies. Adding spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini boosts flavor and nutrition. Just chop them up and mix them into the sauce. You can also switch up the sauce. Try pesto or alfredo for a new twist. Each sauce gives the dish a fresh taste.

Meat Options

If you like meat, you have great options! Ground beef, sausage, or chicken work well. Brown the meat in a pan before adding it to the sauce. This adds a rich flavor. Make sure to drain any grease for a healthier meal.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding spices and herbs can really elevate the taste. Try garlic powder, thyme, or Italian seasoning for extra kick. You can also mix different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for unique profiles. Each cheese brings its own flavor, making the dish special.

For more ideas and a full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep cheesy baked penne fresh, let it cool first. This helps avoid moisture buildup. Use airtight containers to store it. Glass or plastic containers with tight lids work best. They help keep the flavors intact. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save it longer, consider freezing.

Reheating Instructions

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you want the best texture. The oven is great for this. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the penne in a baking dish. Add a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist. Cover with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20 minutes. Check that the cheese is melted and bubbly. This way, you avoid sogginess and keep it tasty.

Freezing Guidelines

Freezing cheesy baked penne is simple. Cut it into portions before freezing. This makes it easy to thaw just what you need. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. To thaw, move a portion to the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven as mentioned before. This keeps it creamy and delicious. Enjoy your cheesy baked penne anytime!

FAQs

Common Questions about Cheesy Baked Penne

How long does it take to cook Cheesy Baked Penne?

It takes about 50 minutes to cook Cheesy Baked Penne. You spend 15 minutes prepping and about 35 minutes baking.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Try rotini or elbow macaroni for fun twists.

What can I serve with Cheesy Baked Penne?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad. Garlic bread or steamed veggies make great sides too.

Tips for First-Time Cooks

What if my cheese doesn’t melt properly?

If your cheese doesn’t melt, check your oven temperature. Ensure it’s preheated to 375°F.

How to know when the dish is done baking?

Look for bubbly, golden cheese on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Ingredient Clarifications

What is the difference between ricotta and cottage cheese?

Ricotta is creamier and less chunky than cottage cheese. It adds a smooth texture to the dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day before. Just cover it tightly and store in the fridge. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge. For the full recipe, check the earlier section.

In this blog post, we covered how to make cheesy baked penne from start to finish. You learned the key ingredients and steps to create a delicious dish. I shared tips to perfect the pasta and suggested easy variations. Proper storing and reheating methods are vital to keep leftovers delightful.

Exploring this recipe gives you a chance to be creative in the kitchen. Enjoy making this tasty meal for you and your loved ones!

Cheesy Baked Penne

Satisfy your cheese cravings with this Cheesy Baked Penne Delight! Made with layers of creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and rich marinara, this comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It takes just 50 minutes from start to finish! Discover step-by-step instructions and presentation tips that will impress everyone at your table. Click to explore the recipe and bring this cheesy goodness to your kitchen!

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Ingredients

  

12 oz penne pasta

2 cups marinara sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready.

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions for al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir these ingredients thoroughly until they create a smooth and well-blended sauce.

Gently add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce mixture, stirring carefully to ensure every piece of pasta is well-coated with the cheesy sauce.

Prepare a large baking dish by greasing it with non-stick spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Spread half of the penne mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish.

Layer half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta in the dish, creating a cheesy layer.

Pour the remaining penne mixture over this layer, followed by the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top for a deliciously cheesy finish.

To retain moisture, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes. Look for the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown to signify it's perfectly baked.

Once finished, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

- Presentation Tips: Serve the cheesy baked penne in individual bowls, or family-style in the baking dish, topped with additional fresh basil for an eye-catching touch. Pair with a light green salad for a complete meal.