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Cheesy Baked Penne Pasta
A Delicious and Comforting Italian-Inspired Meal
Introduction
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Cheesy baked penne pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This recipe combines tender pasta, a rich meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese for an irresistible meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this baked pasta will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound (450g) of penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound (450g) of ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) of marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
For the Cheese Layer:
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup of ricotta or cottage cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente (about 2 minutes less than the package instructions).
- Drain the pasta, toss with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and meat sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture.
- Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and add dollops of ricotta or cottage cheese if using.
- Top with the remaining pasta mixture and finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Pasta
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.
- Garnish with dried parsley or fresh basil before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the baked penne pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Pair it with a glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot for an authentic Italian dining experience.
Tips for Success
- Customize the protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a meatless alternative for a lighter version.
- Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat and add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the sauce.
- Prep ahead: Assemble the dish in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
- Double the cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, don’t hesitate to add extra mozzarella or even try mixing in provolone or gouda for a twist.
Conclusion
Cheesy baked penne pasta is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and rich cheese into one mouthwatering dish. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Try this recipe tonight, and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness of homemade baked pasta!