Italian-Inspired Baked Penne

Italian-Inspired Baked Penne: A Comforting Classic for Any Occasion

There’s something truly magical about a hearty pasta dish that’s baked to perfection. One such dish that embodies the perfect blend of savory flavors, gooey cheese, and comforting pasta is Italian-Inspired Baked Penne. This dish combines all the best elements of Italian cooking, bringing together rich tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and a crispy, golden topping, all baked together in one dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special gathering, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to create this mouthwatering baked penne that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

What Makes This Baked Penne Italian-Inspired?

Baked penne is a classic Italian-American comfort food, but we’re adding some Italian flair to this recipe. The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet bold ingredients: al dente pasta, a robust tomato sauce, and a combination of delicious Italian cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan. What sets this recipe apart is the use of traditional Italian seasonings, such as basil, oregano, and garlic, that elevate the flavors to new heights.

Why You’ll Love This Italian-Inspired Baked Penne

• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of pasta, sauce, and cheese makes this dish incredibly filling. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies your hunger and warms you from the inside out.
• Simple to Make: This dish may look and taste like it took hours to prepare, but it actually comes together in about an hour with minimal prep. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings!
• Great for Meal Prep: Baked penne stores beautifully in the fridge and reheats well, making it a perfect dish for meal prepping or making in advance.
• Kid-Friendly: With cheesy, comforting flavors, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.

Ingredients for Italian-Inspired Baked Penne

To create this flavorful baked penne, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta (or your preferred pasta)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (preferably whole milk mozzarella for the best melt)
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish, optional)

For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends