Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy Baked Penne Pasta Recipe

Baked penne is the quintessential comfort food – a warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. This recipe takes the classic baked pasta to the next level with a creamy, flavorful sauce, perfectly cooked penne, and a generous topping of melted cheese. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the results are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

## Why This Baked Penne Recipe Works

* **Creamy and Flavorful Sauce:** The sauce is the heart of this dish. We’re building layers of flavor with sautéed vegetables, garlic, herbs, and a rich tomato base, all simmered together to create a deeply satisfying sauce.
* **Perfectly Cooked Penne:** Nobody wants mushy pasta! We’ll parboil the penne to al dente, ensuring it retains its shape and texture in the oven.
* **Cheesy Goodness:** A generous layer of mozzarella and parmesan cheese creates a golden-brown, bubbly crust that’s irresistible.
* **Versatile and Customizable:** This recipe is a great base for adding your favorite ingredients, such as vegetables, meats, or cheeses.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** You can assemble the baked penne ahead of time and bake it just before serving, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Penne Pasta:** 1 pound of penne pasta.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons, for sautéing.
* **Onion:** 1 medium, chopped.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced.
* **Bell Pepper:** 1 medium (any color), chopped.
* **Mushrooms:** 8 ounces, sliced (optional).
* **Ground Meat (Optional):** 1 pound of ground beef, Italian sausage, or turkey.
* **Canned Crushed Tomatoes:** 28 ounces.
* **Tomato Paste:** 2 tablespoons.
* **Dried Oregano:** 1 teaspoon.
* **Dried Basil:** 1 teaspoon.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for heat).
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste.
* **Ricotta Cheese:** 15 ounces (whole milk or part-skim).
* **Egg:** 1 large.
* **Fresh Parsley:** 1/4 cup, chopped.
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** 2 cups, shredded.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/2 cup, grated.
* **Fresh Basil Leaves:** For garnish (optional).

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large pot
* Large skillet or Dutch oven
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Mixing bowl

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect baked penne:

**1. Prepare the Penne Pasta:**

* Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
* Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions, but reduce the cooking time by 2-3 minutes. The pasta should be al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
* Drain the pasta and set aside.

**2. Make the Meat Sauce (Optional):**

* If using ground meat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
* Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
* Drain off any excess grease.
* Set the cooked meat aside.

**3. Prepare the Vegetable Sauce:**

* In the same skillet or Dutch oven, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
* If using bell pepper and mushrooms, add them to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

**4. Combine the Sauce Ingredients:**

* Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
* If using cooked ground meat, return it to the skillet.
* Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
* Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

**5. Prepare the Ricotta Cheese Mixture:**

* In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and chopped fresh parsley.
* Mix well until smooth and evenly combined.

**6. Assemble the Baked Penne:**

* Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
* In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the tomato sauce and toss to coat evenly.
* Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
* Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the pasta.
* Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the ricotta cheese.
* Spread the remaining pasta mixture over the mozzarella cheese.
* Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan cheese.

**7. Bake the Penne:**

* Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
* If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.

**8. Let it Rest and Serve:**

* Remove the baked penne from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
* Garnish with fresh basil leaves (optional) before serving.

## Tips for Perfect Baked Penne

* **Don’t overcook the pasta:** Remember to cook the penne al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta will result in a mushy dish.
* **Simmer the sauce:** Simmering the sauce for a longer period allows the flavors to meld together and creates a richer, more complex sauce.
* **Use good quality cheese:** Using good quality mozzarella and parmesan cheese will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the dish.
* **Don’t skip the ricotta:** The ricotta cheese adds a creamy, decadent layer to the baked penne that’s hard to resist.
* **Customize it:** Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, meats, or cheeses to this recipe.
* **Make it ahead:** Assemble the baked penne ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
* **Freeze it:** Baked penne freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

## Variations and Additions

This baked penne recipe is a blank canvas! Here are some ideas to customize it to your liking:

* **Vegetarian:** Omit the ground meat and add more vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, eggplant, or roasted red peppers.
* **Meat Lovers:** Add cooked Italian sausage, pepperoni, or ham to the sauce.
* **Spicy:** Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage.
* **Cheesy:** Use different types of cheese, such as provolone, fontina, or asiago.
* **Creamy:** Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for extra richness.
* **Pesto:** Swirl a spoonful of pesto into the ricotta cheese mixture for a burst of flavor.
* **Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a tangy and savory flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

Baked penne is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with:

* **Garlic bread:** A classic accompaniment to pasta dishes.
* **Side salad:** A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the richness of the baked penne.
* **Roasted vegetables:** Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are a healthy and delicious side dish.
* **Meatballs:** Serve with homemade or store-bought meatballs for a heartier meal.
* **Wine:** A dry red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs well with baked penne.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

(This will vary depending on the ingredients used)

* Calories: 400-600
* Protein: 20-30g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 40-60g

## Frequently Asked Questions

* **Can I use a different type of pasta?** Yes, you can use other types of short pasta, such as rigatoni, ziti, or elbow macaroni.
* **Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?** Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to peel and chop them first. You’ll also need to simmer the sauce for a longer period to allow the tomatoes to break down.
* **Can I make this recipe gluten-free?** Yes, use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
* **How long does baked penne last in the refrigerator?** Baked penne will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
* **How do I reheat baked penne?** You can reheat baked penne in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave.

## Creamy Baked Penne Recipe Card

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 45 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound penne pasta
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 medium bell pepper, chopped (optional)
* 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (optional)
* 1 pound ground meat (optional)
* 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 15 ounces ricotta cheese
* 1 large egg
* 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
* Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package directions, but reduce cooking time by 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. If using ground meat, brown it in a skillet. Drain off excess grease.
4. In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using) until softened.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and cooked ground meat (if using). Simmer for 15-30 minutes.
6. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and parsley.
7. Combine cooked penne pasta with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat.
8. Spread half of the pasta mixture in the baking dish.
9. Dollop ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta.
10. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the ricotta.
11. Spread remaining pasta mixture over the mozzarella.
12. Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
13. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden brown.
14. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil (optional).

## Enjoy Your Delicious Baked Penne!

This creamy baked penne pasta recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and delicious meal. Bon appétit!