Baked Penne

There’s something so heartwarming about a cozy evening spent with friends or family, sharing a dish that feels like a warm hug. That’s exactly how I feel when I serve my family Baked Penne. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame. Each bite is a delightful mix of creamy cheese and perfectly cooked pasta, enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. On chilly winter nights, this dish transforms dinner into a comforting gathering, making everyone feel at home. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special occasion, Baked Penne never fails to impress and satisfy. I believe that food has the power to create memories, and this recipe is one of those that lingers in your heart long after the last bite. So, let’s dive into this delicious journey of flavors!

Baked Penne Ingredients

The ingredients for Baked Penne come together beautifully to create a harmonious dish. Each component has its role, contributing to the overall flavor and texture. The key players here are the pasta, the creamy sauce, and the delightful cheeses, all working in tandem to create a dish that’s rich and satisfying.

• 3 cups tomato sauce – A flavorful base that adds a vibrant color and tangy flavor.
• 1 pound penne rigate pasta – The perfect shape for holding onto all that delicious sauce.
• 1 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, grated – Adds a nutty flavor and perfect saltiness to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons Parmigiano Reggiano, grated – For an extra cheesy topping.
• 18 ounces mozzarella, cut into small pieces – Melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture everyone loves.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Contributes to the richness of the sauce.
• 3 cups whole milk – Forms the creamy base of the bechamel sauce.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter – Used in the sauce for added flavor.
• 5 tablespoons flour – Essential for thickening the bechamel sauce.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances all the flavors.
• Pinch of nutmeg – Adds a warm, aromatic undertone to the sauce.

Preparation Steps for Baked Penne

Preparing Baked Penne is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Start by making the bechamel sauce, then mix it with the pasta and layers of cheese. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll end up with a dish that’s sure to impress!

1. Preheat your oven to 375 F. This ensures your Baked Penne bakes evenly and develops a lovely golden crust.
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a full boil. Add the penne rigate pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite.
3. Once cooked, drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Pour in the tomato sauce and mix well until the pasta is coated.
4. Next, add all but one cup of the prepared bechamel sauce to the pasta and stir to combine. This will create a rich, creamy texture.
5. In a separate bowl, mix in the Parmigiano Reggiano and three quarters of the mozzarella into the pasta mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
6. Pour the remaining cup of bechamel into the bottom of an ovenproof baking dish. This layer prevents the pasta from sticking and adds moisture.
7. Now pour the pasta mixture into the baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. This ensures even cooking.
8. Sprinkle the top with the remaining Parmigiano Reggiano and mozzarella to create a cheesy crust.
9. Dot the top with the remaining two tablespoons of unsalted butter, cutting it into small pieces. This adds richness and flavor.
10. Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden. If you prefer a crispier top, broil for a couple of minutes at the end.
11. While the pasta is baking, melt the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until a thick cream forms. This is the start of your creamy bechamel sauce!
12. Slowly add the whole milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
13. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for a warm flavor. Once ready, remove it from the heat.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are so many ways to make the Baked Penne your own! Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled dish for up to two months. Just make sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Pairing: Serve with a light salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Variations: Feel free to add cooked vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Cheese swaps: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for varied flavors.
• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness on top before serving.

What to Serve With Baked Penne

When it comes to serving Baked Penne, think of hearty sides and refreshing accompaniments that enhance its flavors. Here are some great ideas:

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: The classic pairing! The crunchy, buttery bread is perfect for scooping up that cheesy goodness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and a healthy touch to your meal.
• Wine Pairing: A light, crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, can balance the meal if you enjoy a drink.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, cozy winter dinners, or casual get-togethers with friends.
• Storage Tips: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days, making it convenient for lunch or quick dinners.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Baked Penne is a charming and comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. Its creamy, cheesy texture combined with the hearty pasta makes it a true family favorite. I encourage you to try making this dish yourself and experience the joy it brings. Remember, cooking is about creating memories, and Baked Penne is a perfect recipe to start this journey. Enjoy every bite!

Baked Penne

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Penne is creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. A perfect dish for gatherings, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large Pot with Strain
• Small pan
• Ovenproof baking dish
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups Tomato Sauce
• 1 pound Penne Rigate Pasta
• 1 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, grated
• 2 tablespoons Parmigiano Reggiano, grated
• 18 ounces Mozzarella, cut into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 3 cups Whole Milk
• 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 5 tablespoons Flour
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 1 pinch Nutmeg

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375 F. This ensures your Baked Penne bakes evenly and develops a lovely golden crust.
• In a large pot, bring salted water to a full boil. Add the Penne Rigate Pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite.
• Once cooked, drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Pour in the Tomato Sauce and mix well until the pasta is coated.
• Next, add all but one cup of the prepared bechamel sauce to the pasta and stir to combine. This will create a rich, creamy texture.
• In a separate bowl, mix in the Parmigiano Reggiano and three quarters of the Mozzarella into the pasta mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
• Pour the remaining cup of bechamel into the bottom of an ovenproof baking dish. This layer prevents the pasta from sticking and adds moisture.
• Now pour the pasta mixture into the baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. This ensures even cooking.
• Sprinkle the top with the remaining Parmigiano Reggiano and Mozzarella to create a cheesy crust.
• Dot the top with the remaining two tablespoons of Unsalted Butter, cutting it into small pieces. This adds richness and flavor.
• Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden. If you prefer a crispier top, broil for a couple of minutes at the end.
• While the pasta is baking, melt the Butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Whisk in the Flour until a thick cream forms. This is the start of your creamy bechamel sauce!
• Slowly add the Whole Milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
• Season the sauce with Salt, Pepper, and a pinch of Nutmeg for a warm flavor. Once ready, remove it from the heat.

Notes

• Make ahead: This baked penne recipe can be made ahead of time, one day, and baked at the last minute. Store in the refrigerator covered.
• Store: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Reheat: Bring back to room temperature and reheat in the refrigerator at 325 F until to desired warmth.
• Freeze: You can freeze in a safe freezer container for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator and bring back to room temperature before reheating. Reheat in the oven at 325 F until hot to your likings.

Keyword Baked Penne recipe, comfort food, easy weeknight dinner, Italian Pasta Dish

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!