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Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Be sure to salt the water generously before boiling for enhanced flavor. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Stir in the marinara sauce, followed by the dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Once it’s ready, remove from heat.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the marinara sauce. Add the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and 1.5 cups of mozzarella cheese, then stir gently to combine, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with sauce and cheese.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta, covering it generously. If you like extra cheese, feel free to add more!
Step 5: Bake the Penne
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden. For an extra crispy top, you can broil it for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the baked penne is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness. Serve it hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Italian-Inspired Baked Penne
- Use Homemade Marinara Sauce: If you have time, homemade marinara sauce can take this dish to the next level. Simply cook tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs together to create a rich, flavorful base for your baked penne.
- Customize with Meat or Vegetables: Feel free to add cooked ground meat (such as beef, sausage, or turkey) or sautéed vegetables (like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini) to the sauce for extra protein and flavor.
- Add Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are great, fresh basil or oregano added at the end can enhance the flavor of the dish. A little extra sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving makes a beautiful and aromatic finish.
- Make Ahead and Freeze: This dish is ideal for making ahead of time. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.
- Adjust the Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to increase the amount of mozzarella or even add provolone or gouda for a slightly different flavor profile.
Why This Italian-Inspired Baked Penne is the Best Dinner Ever
This dish embodies all the best qualities of Italian comfort food: hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. The combination of tender penne, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese makes for a truly irresistible meal. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or even a dinner party, and it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the recipe with additional proteins, vegetables, or even different cheeses.
Baked penne is also a great dish for meal prepping, as it keeps well in the fridge and reheats wonderfully. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, so there’s minimal cleanup involved!
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this Italian-Inspired Baked Penne recipe is easy to make and yields a flavorful, comforting dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Conclusion
Italian-Inspired Baked Penne is the epitome of comforting, delicious Italian cuisine. With its combination of pasta, tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or a weeknight meal, this recipe will deliver satisfying and mouthwatering results every time. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for the perfect Italian-inspired meal. Enjoy!
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